Heartbreak for Colombia as Argentina wins 16th Copa America title

MIAMI: Millions of Colombians have been left heartbroken as defending champions Argentina won their 16th Copa America title by 1-0 courtesy of substitute Lautaro Martinez's goal in extra-time at Hard Rock Stadium, Miami, Florida on Sunday.

Argentina's latest title comes on the back of their triumphs at the 2022 World Cup and 2021 Copa America and gives eight-times Ballon d'Or winner Lionel Messi the perfect sendoff in what is likely his last international tournament.

Colombia started the match by pressing high up the pitch and Jhon Cordoba hit the post in the seventh minute before Jefferson Lerma and Richard Rios had long-range efforts saved by Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez.

Messi appeared to hurt his ankle in the 36th minute after a collision with Santiago Arias and while he got back to his feet after receiving treatment he was clearly hampered for the remainder of the half.

Colombia went on the offensive again in the second half with Arias and Davinson Sanchez coming close to scoring.

Argentina soaked up the pressure well but was dealt a blow in the 66th minute when Messi limped off due to an ankle injury.

They continued to grow into the contest and had a goal disallowed for offside but Colombia held on as the match went to extra time.

The defending champions continued to push forward in extra time, testing Colombia goalkeeper Camilo Vargas with a shot from Nico Gonzalez before Martinez finally found the breakthrough.

Argentina's win also ended a record 28-match unbeaten streak for Colombia, whose last defeat also came against 'La Albiceleste' in February 2022.

For Colombia, whose only title came in the 2001 Copa America, it was a disappointing night when little seemed to work for Nestor Lorenzo's team.