Argentina claimed its third straight major title with an extra-time victory over Colombia in Miami on Sunday. A tearful Lionel Messi likely said goodbye to international soccer in a Copa América final delayed by crowd trouble.
Martinez Scores the Winner
Forward Lautaro Martinez, on as a substitute, hit the winner deep into extra time to claim a 1-0 victory for the world champions. This win ended Colombia’s 28-match unbeaten run and brought Argentina a record 16th Copa América crown.
Messi’s Emotional Farewell
The game saw Argentina captain Messi, 37, substituted in the second half with an apparent ankle injury, likely marking his last game at a major international tournament. The soccer legend was visibly emotional as he watched the game unfold from the bench while nursing his swollen right ankle.
Celebration Amidst Chaos
At the final whistle, a hobbling Messi embraced his teammates and coaches with a huge smile before lifting the trophy as jubilant Argentine fans serenaded the champions. The scenes of celebration were the culmination of a chaotic night in Florida.
Crowd Trouble Delays Kick-Off
Kick-off at the sold-out 65,300-capacity Hard Rock Stadium was delayed for more than an hour after thousands of fans without tickets attempted to forcibly enter the stadium. Photos and videos from outside the stadium showed massive overcrowding, with visibly distressed women and children among thousands of fans stuck outside the gates. Some fans even climbed the stadium walls in an attempt to gain entry.
Safety Measures Implemented
The gates were later reopened for a short period to prevent stampedes and serious injury at the perimeter. Law enforcement and security personnel were immediately deployed throughout the stadium and surrounding area to keep fans as safe as possible.
Official Statements
The Miami-Dade Police Department reported several incidents due to unruly behavior and fans trying to access the stadium. Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava and chief public safety officer James Reyes stated they were “outraged by the unprecedented events” and that authorities would investigate what led to the chaos.
FIFA Concerns
The scenes are likely to cause alarm at soccer’s world governing body FIFA, which has approved the Hard Rock Stadium as a host venue for the 2026 World Cup. The Copa América is organized by CONMEBOL, the South American soccer confederation.
Previous Disorder
The disorder in Miami follows Colombia’s semifinal win over Uruguay in Charlotte, North Carolina, which was also marred by unsavory scenes. Tempers flared after a testy match, when players from both squads clashed on the field, and Uruguayan players were seen entering the stands and scuffling with fans.
Conclusion
Argentina’s victory was a historic moment marred by chaotic crowd scenes and a tearful goodbye from Lionel Messi. The celebration was a testament to the team’s resilience and Messi’s legendary career, despite the challenging circumstances surrounding the event.(JiliAsia)
