3️⃣ things learned as Argentina’s victory overshadowed by fan chaos

Argentina lifted the 2024 Copa América final on Sunday night following a 1-0 win over Colombia in extra time.

Here is what we learned from the action.

Lautaro Martínez is him

After receiving heaps of scrutiny at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, Lautaro Martínez’s redemption arc was quite compelling.

The Inter Milan man proved once again that he is the reliable striker Argentina need when it matters most.

An unfit Lionel Messi was a shadow of himself during this tournament and was ultimately forced off during the final with a seriously injured ankle. 

However, this Argentina side continued to press in hopes of delivering for the man who usually helps them the most on the international stage.

Martínez repaid his captain the most at Copa América 2024, ending the tournament as the Golden Boot winner with five goals (in only 133 minutes of action, we might add!).

His individual contributions secured wins over Canada, Chile, Peru, and, ultimately, Colombia in the final. Perhaps he’ll no longer be a substitute looking forward.

Colombia can hold their heads high

They might have fallen oh so short of glory, but this tournament will be one to remember for a while for Colombia.

That dark horse title quickly dissolved into potential tournament favourites as all squad members pulled out convincing performances right until the end.

James Rodríguez, another star revived on the international stage, notably producing some of the most beautiful football at the tournament. Richard Ríos emerged as a midfield maestro and Davinson Sánchez commanded the back line while duo Jhon Arias and Jhon Córdoba impressed up front.

Colombia truly only have themselves to blame for not ultimately lifting the trophy at Hard Rock Stadium on Sunday.

They registered 19 shots and 56% possession, but tired legs came into play after they failed to capitalize on any of their best chances.

Moving forward, however, this crew can surely hold their heads high. Their football was electric over the summer, and that 28-game unbeaten run was historic. Looking ahead to the 2026 World Cup, Colombia are no longer dark horses.

Questions will be asked of CONMEBOL

The Copa América final will leave a sour taste in the mouth after dangerous scenes before kick-off. 

Fans without tickets jumped the gates at Hard Rock Stadium, leading to the venue shutting things down temporarily. It created heavy congestion outside, and fans were caught in the sweltering heat so the match was delayed for over an hour.

Children were crying, fans were trambled as barricades broke down, and Miami police ultimately got involved. Security reportedly stopped checking tickets to handle the numbers, but then prevented fans with real tickets from entering as the stadium overflowed.

The scenes created heaps of conversation and criticism around security in the United States ahead of the 2026 World Cup. However, according to the Athletic, a CONCACAF representative said “Match day ops, security, the physical running of the tournament is 100% CONMEBOL” during the Copa América.

The organization will have plenty to answer following the situation that unfolded while the USA have an example of what not to do in two years time.