Copa America: Argentina secures 16th title with 1-0 win over Colombia
Defending champions Argentina won a record 16th Copa America title by beating Colombia 1-0.
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An extra-time goal from substitute Lautaro Martinez at the Hard Rock Stadium in Florida was the turning point of the game.
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The game, which was delayed by more than an hour after thousands of fans without tickets tried to enter the stadium, was a cagey affair over 90 minutes but opened up in extra time.
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Tournament's leading scorer Martinez latched onto a precise through ball from Giovani Lo Celso before lifting the ball over advancing Colombia goalkeeper Camilo Vargas in the 112th minute to spark wild celebrations among Argentina fans.
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Argentina's latest title comes on the back of their triumphs at the 2022 World Cup and 2021 Copa America.
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This win gives eight-times Ballon d'Or winner Lionel Messi the perfect sendoff in what is likely his last international tournament.
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The win also marked Angel di Maria's final Argentina match after the 36-year-old said last year he would retire from international football after the Copa, while defender Nicolas Otamendi, 36, is also set to end his international career.
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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.
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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.
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Argentina soaked up the pressure well but were dealt a blow in the 66th minute when Messi limped off due to the ankle injury.
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