Argentina win Copa America without Lionel Messi after captain leaves final with injury

Argentina successfully defended their Copa America title on Sunday, defeating Colombia in a thrilling final. Despite an injury scare to Lionel Messi, Argentina managed to secure a 1-0 victory, thanks to a goal from Lautaro Martinez in the 112th minute.

Messi, who suffered a non-contact injury during the match, was seen covering his face with his hands as he sat on the bench. After Martinez scored the decisive goal, he rushed to embrace his captain, marking Argentina’s record 16th Copa title.

The match, which was delayed by 75 minutes due to crowd trouble at Hard Rock Stadium, saw Argentina claim its third major title in a row, following the 2021 Copa America and 2022 World Cup, equalling Spain’s achievement of winning the 2008 and 2012 European Championships around the 2010 World Cup.

Argentina also ended Colombia’s impressive 28-game unbeaten run, which dated back to a loss against the Albiceleste in February 2022. Martinez, who came on in the 97th minute, scored from Giovani Lo Celso’s perfect through pass.

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Just inside the penalty area, Martinez sent a right-foot shot past the outstretched arms of sliding goalkeeper Camilo Vargas for his 29th international goal, which was also the highest in the tournament.

Miami-Dade Police issued a stern warning after chaotic scenes erupted before the Copa America final, stating: “We have had several incidents prior to the gates opening at Hard Rock Stadium for the Copa America final game. These incidents have been a result of the unruly behaviour of fans trying to access the stadium.

“We are asking everyone to be patient and abide by the rules set by our officers and Hard Rock Stadium personnel. We are actively working with Hard Rock Stadium to ensure a safe environment for all those attending. Unruly behaviour will get you ejected and/or arrested. We have a ZERO TOLERANCE behaviour against unruly conduct from everyone attending.”

Families of the players were caught up in the pre-game chaos. Roberto Garnacho, brother of Manchester United winger Alejandro, expressed his disappointment on social media, writing: “What a shame CONMEBOL (South American football’s governing body), the families not being able to enter the stadium, unbelievable.

“We were with (Argentina defender Marcos Acuna’s) family outside, getting away from the fights… Argentina’s security had to come get us, children of players crying, people entering without tickets.”