Argentines flooded the streets to revel in their 1-0 triumph over Colombia in the Copa America final on Sunday, thanks to Lautaro Martinez's extra-time goal in Miami. The match, which remained scoreless after 90 tense minutes, saw Martinez seize a through ball and delicately chip it over Colombia's goalkeeper Camilo Vargas in the 112th minute, clinching Argentina's third straight international championship and their record-setting 16th Copa victory.
Families gathered in Buenos Aires in the wee hours, donning the national team's white and blue as they congregated around the iconic obelisk, braving the chilly winter weather. "We couldn't ask for more from these players; they continue to bring us joy amidst our daily struggles with economic strain," remarked Pablo Rutz, a 26-year-old student, alluding to the 300% annual inflation that has severely strained household finances.
The kickoff at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida, was postponed by over an hour due to the influx of ticketless fans attempting to gain entry. The match also signified the end of an era for at least one Argentine star, with forward Angel Di Maria, 36, announcing his retirement from international football after the Copa. Captain Lionel Messi, 37, and defender Nicolas Otamendi, 36, are also approaching the twilight of their illustrious careers. Messi, who missed Argentina's squad for the Paris Olympics, sustained an ankle injury in the first half and was later substituted, eliciting a standing ovation from the crowd. The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner was seen in tears on the bench, his ankle iced.
"When Messi cried, I cried too, but now I'm filled with joy," shared 17-year-old Damian. Colombia, riding a 28-game unbeaten streak, faced a crushing defeat, yet their supporters remained hopeful for future success. "We deserved better; it's unfortunate, but there can only be one champion, and today it's Argentina," expressed a disheartened 22-year-old law student, Frank Ospina, as he departed a Bogota park where hundreds had gathered to watch.
Colombian President Gustavo Petro announced last week that government offices would be closed on Monday.
