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Lionel Messi was careful not to push himself too much and run around the Hard Rock Stadium even as his joy knew no bounds after Argentina defended their Copa America crown. on Monday, July 15. Lionel Scaloni's men beat Colombia 1-0 in a hard-fought slug fest that was delayed by close to 90 minutes after crowd trouble in Miami, but nothing could deter the spirit of the La Albiceleste. After more than 125 minutes on the pitch, Argentina were crowned champions of the Copa America as Messi's men extended their incredible run, completing the double of the FIFA World Cup and the Copa America title.
Lionel Messi could not hide his smile. Only an hour ago, he was in tears, reduced to the bench after picking up a nasty ankle injury. Messi was taken off in the 64th minute in regulation time as he could not continue and as later seen with a swollen knee. At that moment, Colombia felt they had the upper-hand, but Argentina were at their grittiest best to push the game to extra-time and then win it after late brilliance from Lautaro Martinez, who scored the winner in the 112th minute. Messi was limping, but he made sure he was in the team huddle, acknowledging the applause fro the packed stands, dominated by Argentina fans.
Lionel Messi shared a warm hug with coach Lionel Scaloni, the man who has given arguably the greatest footballer the accolades he deserves in the last few minutes. Messi walked straight to Angel di Maria, who was about to bring the curtains down on his decorated international career on a winning note. Messi embraced Lautaro Martinez, who allowed his happy tears to flow.
The Argentina fans brought the drums and trumpets out as the national team completed a hat-trick of major titles, including two Copa America and the World Cup. Messi was not able to flaunt his footwork to the celebratory tunes at the Hard Rock Stadium, but he was enjoying every bit of it.
Lionel Scaloni made up for it as he ran across the length of the field to acknowledge the support from the fans after the final whistle was blown.
It remains to be seen if Messi, an eight-time Ballon d'Or winner, will continue his run in international football. If he doesn't, he couldn't have asked for a better finish as Argentina reigned supreme in a new home of their superstar - Miami.
