The Argentinian football team and the Uruguay national team were neck-and-neck. Both teams were in a tie, with each side having 15 titles under their arsenal. However, the debate regarding the best American team has been settled. Lionel Scaloni’ squad emerged victorious to bag the prestigious Copa América title for the 16^th time. This comes right after their 2022 World Cup win. La Albiceleste have established themselves as the most successful team in the competition’s history. Additionally, Lionel Messi surpasses Dani Alves, the former Brazilian right-back as the player with the most trophies in football history. Messi won his 45th senior trophy following the 2024 win.  

The long-anticipated 2024 tournament culminated in a clash between Argentina and Columbia. The Hard Rock Stadium in Miami proudly hosted the final face-off between the two powerhouses of football. At the end Argentina defeated Colombia with a 1-0 win. Throughout the competition, Colombia, otherwise known as Los Cafeteros, made an impression with their attacking football style. The 90-minute game came to an end with both teams struggling to score a goal. As the nail-biting match was proceeding into extra time, the goal draught was meeting its end by the Argentinian side. With eight minutes left on the clock, Lautaro Martinez, the Inter Milan forward, scored a stunning goal. 

Additionally, much to the distress of Messi fans, their beloved Ballon d’Or winner’s injury in the second half, put him in substitution. Out off the game early due to an injury, he sobbed on the bench with a swollen ankle. However, following his win, the greatest-of-all-time gave an update regarding his condition as he took to Instagram: “The Copa América is over and the first thing I want is to thank everyone for the messages and greetings. 

However, it wasn’t only the end of the road for the 2024 Copa América season as Angel Di Maria retired from international football. After being substituted off in the 117th minute, the Argentinian right winger made his final exit from the field wearing the national colors. “The truth is I’m not happy because he had to leave that way because of his ankle problem. But finally, today, we were able to win it for him. Give him the joy he deserves. It was a great night,” Di Mario, expressing his final thoughts during a post-match interview.  

Football fans are currently celebrating this unprecedented win by the Argentinian team. However, the thirst for football content and healthy rivalry continues among sports enthusiasts. The focus has firmly shifted to the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico. Spain was simultaneously crowned the Euro Cup winners of 2024 with a record-breaking title win. Fans are anticipating the thrilling clash between Argentina and Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Although Lionel Messi will turn 39 years old in time for the next World Cup, it seems unthinkable that the captain of Argentina will retire before 2026, given how close the competition is.