Argentina 1-0 Colombia: Player ratings as Albiceleste win record 16th Copa America

Argentina secured their 2nd consecutive Copa América title with a thrilling 1-0 victory over Colombia after extra time on Sunday night.

The match took place at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, where two South American powerhouses clashed in a dramatic encounter.

The first half was delayed by an hour and 20 minutes, but once underway, Argentina quickly seized the initiative. Gonzalo Montiel’s cross found Julián Álvarez, whose shot went wide, signaling Argentina’s early attack.

Possession was evenly contested, and Colombia came close with a shot that hit the outside of the post. Argentina suffered a scare when Lionel Messi twisted his right foot in an attack, but he managed to continue until the half-time whistle, which saw the scoreline still goalless.

The 2nd half started with a significant change for Argentina as Messi was substituted out for Nicolás González. González brought energy down the wing, creating several opportunities for Argentina. Both teams continued to push for a goal, prompting Lionel Scaloni to make strategic substitutions. Nahuel Molina, Lautaro Martínez, Leandro Paredes, and Gio Lo Celso replaced Gonzalo Montiel, Julián Álvarez, Alexis Mac Allister, and Enzo Fernández.

With no goals after 90 minutes, the match headed into extra time. In the second half of extra time, Argentina capitalized on a midfield turnover. Gio Lo Celso passed the ball to Lautaro Martínez, who skillfully found the back of the net, giving Argentina the crucial 1-0 lead.

Martínez’s goal was his fifth of the tournament, securing him the top-scorer title. Argentina held on to their lead, and as the final whistle blew, they were crowned Copa América 2024 champions for the 16th time, solidifying their dominance in South American football.

Argentina player ratings

GK: Emiliano Martínez – 6/10 

RB: Gonzalo Montiel – 5/10 

CB: Cristian Romero – 7/10 

CB: Lisandro Martínez – 7/10 

LB: Nicolas Tagliafico – 6/10 

CM: Rodrigo De Paul – 5/10

CM: Enzo Fernandez – 6/10 

CM: Alexis Mac Allister – 6/10

RM: Angel Di Maria – 6/10

ST: Julian Alvarez – 5/10 

LW: Lionel Messi – 5/10 

SUB: Nicolas Gonzalez – 6/10 

SUB: Nahuel Molina – 6/10 

SUB: Lautaro Martinez – 7/10

SUB: Giovani Lo Celso – 6/10 

SUB: Leandro Paredes – 5/10 

SUB: Nicolas Otamendi – N/A