Lionel Messi, cautious not to overexert himself, refrained from running around Hard Rock Stadium, despite his boundless joy after Argentina successfully defended their Copa America crown on Monday, July 15. In a hard-fought match delayed by nearly 90 minutes due to crowd trouble in Miami, Lionel Scaloni’s team beat Colombia 1-0. This victory marked another chapter in La Albiceleste’s incredible run, as they completed the double of winning both the FIFA World Cup and the Copa America title.
An hour earlier, Messi had been in tears, benched due to a nasty ankle injury sustained in the 64th minute of regulation time, which left him with a swollen knee. At that moment, Colombia sensed an advantage. However, Argentina showcased their resilience, pushing the game to extra time and clinching the win thanks to Lautaro Martinez’s late brilliance, who scored the decisive goal in the 112th minute. Despite limping, Messi joined the team huddle, acknowledging the applause from the predominantly Argentine crowd.
Messi shared a heartfelt hug with coach Lionel Scaloni, the man who helped secure the accolades Messi deserved. He then walked straight to Angel di Maria, who was set to end his illustrious international career on a high note. Messi embraced Lautaro Martinez, allowing his joyful tears to flow.
The Argentina fans celebrated with drums and trumpets as the national team completed a hat-trick of major titles, including two Copa America wins and a World Cup. Though Messi couldn’t showcase his footwork to the celebratory tunes at Hard Rock Stadium, he relished every moment of the victory.
Lionel Scaloni made up for Messi’s restrained celebration by running across the field to thank the fans after the final whistle.
As the dust settles, questions linger about Messi’s future in international football. If the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner decides to step back, he couldn’t have scripted a better farewell, with Argentina reigning supreme in his new home of Miami.
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