As the sun sets over Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium on Sunday, July 14, football fans worldwide are gearing up for a showdown that promises to be a spectacular finale to the 2024 Copa América USA tournament. The highly anticipated clash between Argentina and Colombia will not only determine the champion of South America but also potentially mark the legendary Lionel Messi’s final game in the Copa, possibly capping his illustrious international career with another significant trophy.
Both South American national teams boast large and passionate fanbases, and these fans will flood Hard Rock Stadium, home of the Miami Dolphins, before the kick-off at 8:00 PM (ET).
Argentina has demonstrated resilience, though with few moments of brilliance throughout this tournament. The team’s journey to the final has been marked by a blend of tactical opportunism and individual flair. Messi, the captain and talisman, has been pivotal, delivering strong performances within a relatively young squad.
On the other side, Colombia, led by their stoic coach Nestor Lorenzo, has emerged as a formidable opponent. Their path to the final has been a testament to their grit and determination. Key strikers like F.C. Liverpool’s Luis Diáz, alongside team captain James Rodríguez, and midfielders Richard Ríos and Jhon Córdoba have shown exceptional resilience and stability. The Colombian defense, featuring Carlos Cuesta and Dávinson Sánchez, has also been rock solid, making them a tough nut to crack. Then Colombia can also add to its roster Jefferson Lerma, whose header against Uruguay defined the game.
The final promises to be a tactical battle between two contrasting styles of play. Argentina’s possession-based approach, characterized by intricate passing and fluid movement, will face Colombia’s more direct and physically imposing game plan. The Albiceleste strategy will likely revolve around exploiting Messi’s creativity and vision, with Inter Milan striker Lautaro Martinez and Ángel Di María providing support in attack.
Meanwhile, James (No.10) and his team must aim to disrupt Messi (No.10) in a high-stakes game and quick counter-attacks. In other words, the final between two Number Tens is a test of resolve between one icon of the game – Messi – and one of the most beloved players of the game – Rodríguez.
Messi’s role in this grand finale cannot be overstated. Having already won the Copa América in 2021, he is eager to solidify his legacy with a third international trophy. His ability to dictate the tempo of the game and create opportunities out of seemingly nothing makes him the focal point of Argentina’s ambitions. Moreover, his set-piece prowess and knack for scoring crucial goals will be a constant threat to the Colombian defense.
With their epic performance and win over Uruguay, Colombia has gone 28 matches unbeaten, an all-time record for Las Selección Colombia. This is Argentina’s sixth final since 2014, with four of the previous five going to extra time and three to penalties—a scenario neither team wishes to face.
Colombia’s semifinal victory over Uruguay (1-0) has boosted their confidence, proving they can compete at the pinnacle of any international tournament. The battle in midfield will be a key determinant of the outcome, with both teams looking to gain control and dictate the flow of the game.
Defensively, both teams have shown resilience, but the pressure of a final can often lead to unexpected errors. Goalkeepers Emiliano Martínez of Argentina and Camilo Vargas of Colombia will have crucial roles, as their shot-stopping abilities could be the difference between victory and defeat.
As fans eagerly await the kickoff, the atmosphere in Miami is electric. The Hard Rock Stadium, known for its vibrant and passionate crowds, will be a cauldron of emotions. For Messi, it’s another opportunity to etch his name in the annals of football history. For Colombia, it’s a chance to claim their second Copa América title and write a new chapter in their sporting story, and cheered along by one of the team’s most loyal fans – Shakira!
Regardless of the outcome, this final duel between Messi’s Argentina and Colombia promises to be a footballing spectacle—a fitting conclusion to a tournament that has showcased the best of South American football.
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