The first half of the Copa America 2024 final between Argentina and Colombia showcased a series of missed opportunities for Argentina, highlighting the tension and high stakes of the match. From the very start, Julián Álvarez set the tone with an early attempt that narrowly missed the target in the first minute. Assisted by Gonzalo Montiel, Álvarez’s right-footed shot from the center of the box was an initial warning of Argentina’s attacking intent.
Lionel Messi, Argentina’s talisman, also saw his efforts thwarted. In the 20th minute, Messi’s left-footed shot from the center of the box was saved in the center of the goal following a cross from Ángel Di María. Despite Argentina’s continuous pressure, they struggled to break through Colombia’s defense, with several attempts either saved or missing the target. Nicolás Tagliafico had a notable chance just before the halftime whistle, but his header from the center of the box was too high, leaving the scoreline unchanged.
Colombia’s Resilient Defense and Counter-Attacks
Colombia’s defense played a crucial role in keeping Argentina at bay during the first half. Jefferson Lerma was instrumental, conceding a corner early on but later redeeming himself with a powerful right-footed shot from more than 35 yards that was saved by Emiliano Martínez in the 33rd minute. This set the stage for Colombia’s strategic counter-attacks, which almost paid off multiple times.
Jhon Córdoba was particularly dangerous for Colombia, hitting the post in the 7th minute and later having a header blocked in the 34th minute. Carlos Cuesta also came close, with a header in the 13th minute that was saved in the center of the goal. Despite their best efforts, Colombia could not capitalize on these opportunities, but their resilience in defense and swift counter-attacks kept the Argentine side on their toes.
Physical Encounters and Tactical Fouls Define the Half
The first half was not only defined by missed opportunities and defensive stands but also by physical encounters and tactical fouls that disrupted the flow of the game. Enzo Fernández of Argentina committed a foul on James Rodríguez in the 14th minute, while Luis Díaz of Colombia was booked for a bad foul on Lisandro Martínez in the 27th minute, leading to a temporary halt as Martínez received treatment.
The physicality continued with Lionel Messi sustaining an injury in the 36th minute, causing another delay. Despite these interruptions, both teams maintained their aggressive playstyles. Free kicks were a common occurrence, with players like James Rodríguez and Rodrigo De Paul frequently involved in the action. As the half drew to a close, the score remained 0-0, reflecting the intense and evenly matched battle on the pitch. The stage was set for an equally thrilling second half, with both teams looking to break the deadlock and secure the Copa America title.
Intense Battle for Supremacy
The Copa America 2024 final between Argentina and Colombia was a gripping contest marked by fierce competition and intense moments. The second half began with Colombia’s Santiago Arias attempting a shot that went wide, setting the tone for an action-packed half. Argentina responded swiftly with Ángel Di María’s shot, which was saved by Colombia’s goalkeeper, demonstrating both teams’ determination to break the deadlock.
Throughout the half, both teams exchanged attacks and faced injuries that caused delays. Notably, Lionel Messi’s injury and subsequent substitution raised concerns among Argentine fans. Despite these setbacks, Argentina managed to maintain their defensive composure while Colombia pushed forward aggressively, resulting in multiple fouls and free kicks that added to the match’s intensity.
Tactical Changes and Key Moments
The introduction of fresh legs in extra time highlighted the strategic depth of both teams. Colombia brought on Juan Fernando Quintero, while Argentina made a triple substitution, bringing in Lautaro Martínez, Leandro Paredes, and Giovani Lo Celso. These changes revitalized Argentina, with Nicolás González coming close to scoring, only to be denied by a save from Colombia’s goalkeeper.
The crucial moment arrived in the 112th minute when Lautaro Martínez, assisted by Giovani Lo Celso, scored the decisive goal. This breakthrough came after a series of blocked attempts and strategic play from both sides. The goal electrified the Argentine supporters and shifted the momentum in favor of Argentina, forcing Colombia to intensify their attacking efforts.
Resilient Defense and Final Whistle
As the match approached its conclusion, Argentina’s defense faced relentless pressure from Colombia. Miguel Borja’s attempts and Mateus Uribe’s shot highlighted Colombia’s desperation to equalize. However, Argentina’s defense, led by Lisandro Martínez and Nicolás Otamendi, held firm. The final moments saw Argentina managing to thwart Colombia’s last-ditch efforts, with key saves and defensive clearances ensuring their narrow lead remained intact.
Despite Colombia’s persistent attacks and multiple missed opportunities, Argentina’s resilience paid off. The final whistle confirmed Argentina’s 1-0 victory, securing their Copa America 2024 title. The match will be remembered for its tactical depth, intense moments, and the decisive goal that crowned Argentina as the champions of South America.
