Did Lionel Messi's tears signal the end to his Argentina reign? How has Argentina developed strong winning mentality at the twilight of the margica
Did Lionel Messi’s tears signal the end to his Argentina reign?
How has Argentina developed strong winning mentality at the twilight of the margical Messi’s career?
Lionel Messi after winning FIFA U-20 World Cup, Olympic Games and losing many finals at the senior lever including the 2014 FIFA World Cup finals against Germany in Brazil is now lifting everything that comes his way for Argentina.
It is three straight wins in the last three major tournaments for Lionel Scaloni’s much-fancied Argentina. The defending champions of the COPA America met their biggest test in the well organised Colombia and passed successfully through Lautaro Martinez’s extra time goal.
Colombia last lost a game in early 2022 against Argentina and was well determined to revenge.
Big games in South America almost always goes with hooliganism and this final was never going to be an exception. After more than an hour delay, the game got off to an unbelievable intensity from both sides.
Colombia was slightly ahead of Argentina in terms of possession and chances creation but the center-back pairing of Lisandro Martinez and Christian Romero was solid and strong and hence prevented Luis Diaz, James Rodriguez and Jhon Cordoba from troubling Eme Martinez.
In the second half, Angel Di Maria’s attempts were saved by Camilo Vargas. Jhon Arias’ 72nd minute penalty appeal was shuned after VAR refused to award it.
The game ended goalless with both teams still determined to win in the extra time. Inter Milan’s skipper and Argentina’s super sub, Lautaro Martinez scored in the 112th minute to put Argentina into the lead.
It was a big blow to Colombia after conceding that late goal because there was a very litle way for them to breakdown Argentina’s solid defence.
Messi lifted his third senior trophy for Argentina after so many sorry moments for the 8 time Balon d’Or winner.
Eme Martinez, Argentina’s number 1 goalkeeper, was voted for as the “Best Goalkeeper of the Tournament”, James Rodriguez, skipper for Colombia won “MVP of the Tournament” and Lautaro Martinez, the hero of the finals won the “Top Scorer” after scoring 5 goals.
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