Argentina defeated Colombia to win Copa América 2024, played at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami last night. With a goal by Player Lautaro Martínez in overtime, Argentina won the game and defended their 2021 title. And, of course Argentinians all over the world are still celebrating today.
“We were born to suffer! That’s what all Argentinians say after a tough game like last night’s final. Bravo Argentina!” Argentinian Social Media Expert and Content Creator Veronica Castagno tells us. “And Colombia should be very proud of their team and players.”
But not all went as planned, according to fans, like Castagno, some media outlets, and thousands of others who took to TikTok to voice concerns. Some are disappointed with the host city of Miami, while others questioned Shakira’s half-time performance.
Copa América History
The first Copa América, also known as the America’s Cup, was held in 1916 to celebrate the centenary of Argentina’s independence. This first tournament featured four teams: Argentina, Brazil, Chile, and Uruguay. In an intense final, Uruguay won, defeating Argentina and becoming the first nation to claim the championship.
“In the same year, the South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL) was established, formalizing the structure for organizing future tournaments. Initially, the competition was an annual event, promoting football across the continent and fostering regional camaraderie,” Robert Wood writes for Topend Sports. “The early years saw the tournament expand in popularity and competitiveness. New venues and rising football talents from countries like Paraguay and Peru began to emerge. Uruguay's dominance in the 1920s, with victories in 1917, 1920, and 1926, solidified their status as a powerhouse in South American football.”
Since then, the Copa América has evolved into the oldest still-running continental football competition, showcasing fierce rivalries and exceptional talent across South America.
Argentina Defeated Colombia
Last night saw some great moments. “It was such an intense game that favored Argentina thanks to another majestic goal by Lautaro Martinez, his 5th in this Copa,” Castagno says.
Martinez will go down in sports history for his game-changing goal. Like in 2021, when Lionel Messi, who was injured and replaced last night, scored his unforgettable goal.
“In the group stage match, Messi’s brilliance was on full display as he curled the ball into the top corner from a considerable distance, leaving the Chilean goalkeeper with no chance,” 365Scores writes. “The ball spun away from the helpless wall and goalkeeper and kissed the top scorer of the Chilean net. This goal not only showcased Messi’s exceptional talent but also set the tone for Argentina’s historic 2021 Copa America win.”
In 1999, then young player Ronaldinho made history by scoring a winning goal for Brazil. “Eighteen minutes into the second half, he made a magical move, eluding several defenders with a mix of speed and skill, and finished with a shot that left the Venezuelan goalkeeper with no response,” ColombiaOne writes. “This goal was not only crucial to Brazil’s 7-0 victory but also marked the beginning of the international career of one of the most talented footballers of all time, who, four years later, would sign for FC Barcelona and become its star player.”
‘A Huge Red Flag’
Even though Argentina won, the game was emotional for both teams and their fans. “In Argentina’s case, it was the last time we were going to see Messi and Di María play together,” Castagno says. "They gave us so many years of dreams, finals, and great sportsmanship together! Their final dance was beautiful, even when Leo was badly injured and cried because he wanted to give it all, once again, leaving his soul on the field. … I cried, and I don’t even want to imagine the day Messi decides he’s had enough.”
An, yes, Argentinian fans are rejoicing today, but many like Castagno are disappointed with many aspects of last night.
“Even when the game was fantastic, we can’t ignore the disappointment of the incredible lack of organization in Miami that left so many people who paid thousands of dollars to attend a game out of the stadium!” Castagno tells us. “It was madness and things could have gone terribly wrong.”
According to outlets like Marca, Shakira’s Half-Time show, a first during Copa, was “controversial.” The controversy started day’s before, when Colombia's coach, Nestor Lorenzo questioned the Colombian’s star’s performance during the game.
Controversial or not, Shakira’s performance already has over 1.4 million views on YouTube in less than 12 hours.
Fans like Castagno are already looking forward to the The World Cup final, which will be held at New Jersey's MetLife Stadium on July 19, 2026.
“With the World Cup coming so soon, last night’s problems are a huge red flag that must be addressed immediately so we can all enjoy the world coming to the U.S. to live and breathe the most beautiful game,” Castagno says.
Featured photo courtesy of DepositPhotos.
