New Delhi: Lionel Messi became the most decorated footballer in the sport’s history as Argentina defeated Colombia 1-0 in extra-time to win a record 16th Copa America title in Florida on Sunday. Neither side managed to break the deadlock in normal time in a tense encounter between the South American giants at the Hard Rock Stadium.
The first half of the extra time also went goalless but just when the fans were gearing up for the penalty shootout, Lautaro Martinez scored the winner in the 112th minute to help Argentina clinch the continental crown for a record 16th time.
The monumental win also took Messi to the top of the trophy-winning chart in the history of football. Copa America 2024 crown was Messi’s 45th title (club and country combined) as the legendary footballer surpassed his former Barcelona teammate Dani Alves.
While Messi became the most decorated player in football history following Argentina’s win, it was a night to forget for the South American talisman.
Messi didn’t look at his best in a cagey first half and just when he looked like finding his rhythm, he suffered a horrific injury. The 2022 World Cup winner was left in tears after an ankle injury forced him off the field in the 64th minute. The seven-time Ballon d’Or winner twisted his ankle and the after-effects were visible in a shocking photo that showed his ballooned ankle.
Lionel Messi’s ankle is absolutely destroyed pic.twitter.com/SUk5Pd8ZZW
— FearBuck (@FearedBuck) July 15, 2024
Copa joy for Argentina
Argentina continued their golden run by becoming only the second team after Spain to win three international tournaments in a row. The La Albiceleste clinched the 2021 Copa America before winning the 2022 World Cup in Qatar and two years later successfully defended the Copa America title in the United States of America.
While Messi became the most decorated player in football history following Argentina’s win, it was a night to forget for the South American talisman. Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
