Argentina defeat Colombia 1-0 to win record 16th Copa America

Lautaro Martinez secured Argentina's record 16th Copa America title with an extra-time goal in their 1-0 victory over Colombia at Hard Rock Stadium on Sunday. 

The match, plagued by security and crowd issues that caused an 82-minute delay, was ultimately decided by Martinez's fifth goal of the tournament. 

This triumph marks Argentina's third consecutive major tournament win, following their 2021 Copa America and 2022 World Cup victories.

The celebrations were tinged with sadness as captain Lionel Messi left the game injured in the 66th minute, watching the remainder from the bench in tears. 

It was also an emotional farewell for Angel Di Maria in his final national team appearance. 

For Colombia, it was a disappointing night with little success for Nestor Lorenzo's team, whose only title remains the 2001 Copa America.

Entry chaos ensued at the stadium, with fans and organizers blaming each other for the disarray. The situation improved after gates were opened without checks, allowing the game to proceed. 

Supporters, including young children, were left stranded outside the stadium in large numbers with the searing heat in the area only adding to the issues. And a number of fans were ejected from the stadium throughout the game.

Lautaro Martinez's winner for Argentina 

Colombia's Jhon Cordoba hit the post early, but neither team found their rhythm initially. Messi's 20th-minute shot was saved by Colombia keeper Camilo Vargas, while Jefferson Lerma's long-range effort forced a save from Emiliano Martinez.

Concerns arose for Messi in the 36th minute after a challenge from Santiago Arias, but he continued playing, later delivering a free-kick that Nicolas Tagliafico narrowly missed. 

However, Messi's injury without contact in the 66th minute forced him off, replaced by Nicolas Gonzalez, leaving Messi in tears on the bench.

The first half was disappointing, and the second half only improved slightly, with some entertainment provided by Colombian singer Shakira. 

Argentina struggled to deal with a James Rodriguez corner, and Davinson Sanchez missed a header.

Di Maria's run and subsequent save by Vargas finally brought some quality to the game. Argentina thought they had a winner in the 75th minute through Gonzalez, but it was ruled out for offside. 

Extra-time offered little change until Leandro Paredes' perfectly timed tackle led to Giovani Lo Celso's pass setting up Martinez for the decisive goal. 

Little changed in extra-time with a half-chance from Miguel Borja after a flick from Jorge Carrascal but the game was settled by a worthy winner.