Lautaro Martinez’s extra-time heroics propelled Argentina to a historic 16th Copa America crown, edging out Colombia 1-0 at the Hard Rock Stadium, on Sunday.
The Inter Milan forward delivered the decisive blow in the 112th minute, blasting a powerful shot past the Colombian goalkeeper, sealing the victory for the defending champions.
The match, a gritty and hard-fought contest, was marred by an emotional twist.
Argentina’s captain, Lionel Messi, was forced to leave the field in tears during the second half due to a painful ankle injury, casting a shadow over the team’s triumphant night.
The highly anticipated South American football finale faced an 82-minute delay in kick-off, sparked by crowd disturbances involving unruly, unticketed fans.
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