Copa America 2024 final: Argentina beat Colombia 1-0 despite Messi injury scare, crowd trouble at Hard Rock Stadium

Reigning world Champions Argentina have triumphed once again! Lionel Messi and his team successfully clinched their 16th Copa America title with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Colombia at Miami's Hard Rock Stadium in the early hours of Monday (Indian time).

The South American football spectacle faced an 82-minute kickoff delay due to crowd trouble caused by unruly unticketed fans.

Once the game finally commenced, it remained deadlocked until the late stages of extra time. It was then that Inter Milan's Lautaro Martinez broke the stalemate with a decisive strike in the 112th minute, securing Argentina's victory. Displaying composure, the striker burst through the heart of a tired Colombian defence to pick the corner expertly.


Martinez came to Argentina’s rescue after Lionel Messi's night and Copa America final ended prematurely. The Argentina captain departed the field in tears during the 64th minute, nursing an apparent ankle injury. The 37-year-old’s distressing exit came after a non-contact injury sustained while sprinting at full speed. Subsequent images showed a visibly swollen ankle as Messi sat on the sidelines.

Prior to the delayed kickoff, chaotic scenes unfolded as individuals breached security railings near the Southwest entrance of the stadium, evading both police and venue staff. The backdrop was filled with shouts and commotion.

In the sweltering heat of South Florida, some individuals required medical attention and hydration. Authorities swiftly responded by securing entrances with black gates, effectively preventing further unauthorised access.

Despite the challenges, Argentina's teammates rallied when Messi needed them most. With this triumph, Argentina has clinched back-to-back Copa America titles, wrapped around a glorious World Cup victory. This achievement underscores that while the Messi era may be drawing to a close, Argentina's era of dominance is here to stay.