Argentine win record 16th Copa America title against Colombia, but Messi suffers another injury

Argentina have claimed their 16th Copa America title with a 1-0 win over Colombia in the final at Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium.

Lautaro Martinez scored the decisive goal in extra time, securing Argentina’s record 16th Copa title and their third consecutive major tournament win since 2021.

However, the game saw Messi collapse in the 64th minute. He lay on the ground for several minutes before being assisted to his feet, visibly frustrated as he removed his right shoe.

An emotional Messi, with a noticeably swollen ankle, was substituted by Nicolas Gonzalez.

Earlier in the match, Messi had gone down clutching his right ankle after a hard challenge from Colombia’s Santiago Arias.

The incident occurred as Messi chased a ball near the sideline, planting his right leg awkwardly. Despite writhing in pain, Messi returned to the game after receiving treatment.

The injury was compounded by Messi’s ongoing leg discomfort throughout the tournament, which had caused him to miss the group stage finale.

On Sunday, he managed just one shot attempt before his early substitution.

Argentina held on to win against a strong Colombia side, which had been unbeaten in their last 28 games.

Messi, despite his injury, watched from the sidelines as his team triumphed, adding another Copa crown to Argentina’s illustrious history.