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The 2024 Copa America final between Argentina and Colombia was a dramatic event that ended with Argentina claiming a 1-0 victory. The match, held at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida, saw Lautaro Martinez scoring the decisive goal in extra time, ensuring Argentina’s third consecutive major tournament title and their record 16th Copa America trophy.
The Match
The game, originally scheduled to start at 8 p.m. ET, was delayed by over 75 minutes due to crowd issues. Despite the chaotic build-up, both teams delivered a tense and competitive match. Regulation time ended goalless, with both sides missing several scoring opportunities. This led to 30 minutes of extra time.
Lautaro Martinez’s Heroics
In the 112th minute, Lautaro Martinez broke the deadlock. He received a perfect through pass from Giovani Lo Celso, and with a right-foot shot, he sent the ball through the arms of Colombia’s goalkeeper Camilo Vargas. This goal, his 29th international goal, secured Argentina’s Copa America final victory.
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Messi’s Emotional Exit
A significant moment in the match was Lionel Messi’s departure due to an injury. The 37-year-old star exited the game in tears after a non-contact leg injury. Earlier in the match, he planted his right leg awkwardly and appeared to make contact with Colombia’s Santiago Arias. Despite his best efforts, the pain forced him to leave the field.
Crowd Chaos Delays Kickoff
Hours before kickoff, fans breached the security gates at Hard Rock Stadium, leading to a chaotic scene. Videos showed fans, mostly in Colombia’s colors, jumping over security railings and running past police officers. The situation forced both teams off the field during warmups, and the stadium went on lockdown. Security eventually allowed fans to reenter slowly to prevent stampedes. The match finally kicked off at 9:22 p.m.
A statement from Hard Rock Stadium highlighted the severity of the situation: “Thousands of fans without tickets attempted to forcibly enter the stadium, putting other fans, security, and law enforcement officers at extreme risk.”
Martinez’s Penalty Record
Emiliano Martinez, Argentina’s goalkeeper, played a crucial role in their victory. Known for his penalty-saving prowess, Martinez has never lost a penalty shootout with Argentina.
Emiliano Martinez has faced a total of 36 penalty shots, saving 7 of them, which gives him a save percentage of 19.44%.
Martinez’s impressive record spans the CONMEBOL Copa América and the FIFA World Cup.
Statements from Officials
Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava and Chief Public Safety Officer James Reyes expressed their outrage over the incident: “This situation should have never taken place and cannot happen again.”
Despite the chaotic start and Messi’s emotional exit, Argentina triumphed in the 2024 Copa America final. Lautaro Martinez’s late goal ensured a memorable victory, adding another title to Argentina’s illustrious football history. The Argentine fans had much to celebrate as their team once again proved their dominance in South American football.