Heartbreak for Colombia, Jubilation for Argentina: Argentina 1-0 Colombia (AET) - Copa América Final Review

Argentina retained the Copa América last night following a 1-0 win over an in-form Colombia side. Argentina now become the most decorated side of the competition with 16 titles, surpassing neighbours Uruguay. With 3 back-to-back tournament wins, La Albiceleste are in dreamland whereas Colombia will be devastated after a highly successful campaign.

Martínez the Difference

Lautaro Martínez's pivotal goal in the 112th minute was the difference in a hotly contested match. The Inter man finished the tournament with the Golden Boot scoring 5 goals. He gave Argentina after picking up a defence splitting pass from Giovani Lo Celso, giving enough lift on the ball to go past Vargas in goal. The Colombian keeper, who's had a sensational tournament, will be disappointed he couldn't quite keep out a saveable shot, albeit from close range.

Lautaro Martínez has seen his minutes managed during the tournament with Julian Álvarez and Lionel Messi the preferred duo up top for Scaloni. Yet, tournament football is less about the individuals and more the team as Argentina banded together to deliver La Copa for the nation.

Colombia Should Hold Their Heads High

From not qualifying for the 2022 World Cup to playing in La Copa América final, Colombia should be immensely proud of the progress they've made during this tournament. A country, darkened by negative press and a violent history have given the country a reason for unity through the sheer power of international football. This concept of nation-building is very powerful in Colombia through football, La Tricolor have given fans belief once again in something truly remarkable.

Colombia did edge out proceedings last night, enjoying 55% possession, 19 shots and dominating play with 602 passes to Argentina's 474. On another day they could've won the match with several opportunities missed as well as some controversial penalties not given.

Although the result did not go in their favour, Los Cafeteros will be excited for the qualification process for the World Cup 2026. There will be great expectation for them to breeze to the world finals, boasting a highly talented squad with experience, youth and tenacity. As Pete Watson described, the Colombian national team is in a renaissance period after a difficult time since the 2014 World Cup.

Messi's Tears Turn From Sadness to Elation

But, as Argentina have done all tournament, La Albiceleste had just enough control on the match to sway it in their favour, even when star man Lionel Messi went off in tears on the 66th minute via injury. The pictures were reminiscent of Ronaldo's forced substitution in the Euros 2016 Final as Portugal went on to win without him on the pitch in extra time as well.

Messi was forced to watch the match from the sidelines, unable to physically impact the rest of proceedings. Fortunately, his team got over the line. The 37 year old now becomes the most decorated player of all time with 45 titles, one more than former Barcelona teammate Dani Alves (44). Another weapon in the arsenal of the Messi vs Ronaldo GOAT debate, the Argentine has undoubtedly had one of, if not, the best careers of all time in an illustrious career.

In other news, Ángel Di María announced his retirement from international football last night. The winger has enjoyed a successful career and wanted to retire from Argentina in the best way possible by winning another Copa América trophy. The 36 year old played 145 times for La Albiceleste, scoring 31 goals. Di María will play one final season for Portuguese side Benfica before his complete retirement from the beautiful game at the end of 24/25 season.

The Resurrection of James Rodríguez

Despite not winning the trophy, Rodríguez has gone home with the Golden Ball as the best player at this year's championships. The captain finished the tournament with 1 goal and 6 assists despite playing very little football with Sao Paulo, being in and out of the starting XI; a truly remarkable resurgence during a tricky time in his career.

The 33 year old has dominated this tournament and led the Colombian side superbly. You'd like to think Rodríguez will have an eye on the 2026 World Cup in 2 years time when he will be 35 years young. Although the tournament ended in despair for Colombia, they will take lots of positives from their performances. Rodríguez will look to lead La Tricolor again at the World Cup, even if he plays a smaller role than he did this tournament.