Beating Colombia in extra time, Argentina won Copa America

The 2024 Copa America final between Argentina and Colombia was postponed for 75 minutes after a security incident outside the stadium. Many fans did not have tickets but tried to get past the security fence to watch the match. This more or less affected the preparations of both teams for the final.

After the opening whistle, it was Colombia who took the initiative. They controlled the ball a lot and played flexibly thanks to Lerma and Rios in the midfield. The first dangerous chance belonged to Colombia. From Arias' touch, Codorba finished well in the penalty area but the opening goal did not come to Colombia.

Much of the first half was played out in tense one-on-ones, with midfielders Enzo Fernandez and Mac Allister struggling to keep pace with their opponents' pressing and defending. Argentina opted to play at a slower pace to maintain safety in their own half.

Lionel Messi continued to be the focus of Argentina's attacks. In the 20th minute, receiving a pass back from Angel di Martia, Messi rushed in to shoot from about 12 meters away but he was unsuccessful with his decision. At the end of the first half, Messi's free kick created an opportunity for Tagliafico to head the ball but it went wide.

In the second half, the match continued at a high pace, lacking goals but with plenty of intensity. The Colombian team had some very dangerous shots outside the box. However, that was not the way to defeat Emiliano Martinez. Meanwhile, Messi continued to endure many fierce tackles. He had to leave the field in the 65th minute due to injury.

In the last 25 minutes of the match, Argentina had 2 dangerous opportunities, both from the left wing. Unfortunately, Nicolas Gonzalez could not take advantage to help Albiceleste score. In the 76th minute, this midfielder put the ball into the Colombian net but one of his teammates was offside. After 2 regular periods, Argentina and Colombia entered extra time.

In the 112th minute, Giovani Lo Celso made a beautiful assist, Lautaro Martinez escaped and fired a tricky shot to open the score for Argentina. This valuable goal helped Argentina defeat Colombia and win the 2024 Copa America.