Argentina after the narrow victory over Colombia have now won a third successive major tournament
By Kehinde Okeowo
Argentina edged past Colombia to win a record 16th Copa America at the Hard Rock Stadium, Florida, United States on Monday morning.
However, the kick-off was delayed for 80 minutes because of crowd trouble after some fans without tickets tried to force their way into the ground.
Apart from this, the half-time break lasted for 25 minutes because of a concert by Colombian popstar, Shakira on the pitch.
The final was a game of few clear chances in hot, humid conditions, with Colombia’s Jhon Cordoba hitting the woodwork in the first half.
ALSO READ: Spain beat England 2-1, lift 2024 Euro trophy
Argentina thought they had taken the lead with 15 minutes to go but Nicolas Tagliafico’s effort was ruled out for offside.
Lautaro Martinez, however, struck in the second half of extra time from Giovani lo Celso’s through ball to secure a 1-0 win for the World Cup holders.
After the highly intriguing encounter, Argentina’s captain, Lionel Messi, who was left in tears after he was substituted midway through the second half due to injury, was seen celebrating his country’s third successive major tournament at the final whistle.