On a historic day, Argentina wins Copa America final 2024 trophy.
On a remarkable day, Argentina triumphs in the Copa America 2024.
More than an hour delayed the Copa America final 2024 trophy between Argentina and Colombia, following tumultuous and dangerous events that saw thousands of people stop from entering the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami.
At 9:22 p.m. ET, 82 minutes after it was supposed to start, the game started at last. Despite Lionel Messi being taken off with an injury, Argentina went on to defeat Colombia 1-0 following extra time in order to defend their Copa America final 2024.
According to the Miami-Dade Police Department, “several incidents” preceded the stadium gate opening. The Athletics fans pointed their fingers at CONMEBOL organizers. “It’s a disaster,” one commented. They are not even given water. No, not even water!”
Supporters—including little children—were left stuck outside the stadium in great numbers, with the blazing heat in the surrounding area only aggravating the problems. During the game, several supporters were kicked out of the stadium.
Argentina is unique, but its football is not what makes it so. Stumbling their way to a second consecutive Copa America with a 1-0 extra-time triumph over Colombia, the three-time world champions faltered It proved one thing: Argentina simply keeps winning.
Champions’ behavior is exactly the same. Argentina never settled into their best form after four weeks in the United States. Their possession-based approach did not overwhelm their opponent. After winning his 45th professional trophy, Lionel Messi was a shell of himself.
Delay pre-match had an effect, claims Lorenzo.
Speaking following the loss, Colombia coach Nestor Lorenzo said that the pre-match delay compromised his side’s readiness.
“I think we had a very good build-up to the game but then some unusual situations started to happen,” he said. “(The players) warmed up, cooled down, warmed up again, before the kick-off. Then we had 25 minutes of half-time, strange things for both teams.”
He then spoke on the two teams’ varying experience.
“Generally the tension is felt more by those who have less experience in finals, and it took its toll on us,” added Lorenzo. “It’s not easy to play in a final for everyone, the boys felt a bit of the effort of the whole tournament, they played six games in 21 days.”
Messi, 37, was effective in flashes, but since June 25, he has been limited by a groin ailment.
With what looked to be painful right ankle damage, he was replaced in the 66th minute of the final. Despite this, Argentina emerged victorious with their third consecutive major prize, the 2022 World Cup, sandwiched between the 2021 Copa and this match, making them the first team from South America to achieve this feat. The Albiceleste team achieved the same feat as the outstanding Spain team, which had done so from 2008 to 2012.