Argentina 1-0 Colombia: summary, score, goals, highlights Copa América final
Argentina - Colombia: As it happened
Argentina win record-setting 16th Copa America
Going into this summer's tournament Argentina and Uruguay were level on 15 titles apiece at the top of the Copa America standings. Now, with this 16th triumph, Argentina are out on their own at the top. Following the 2022 World Cup and the 2021 Copa America, this is Argentina's third successive major title.
It's an incredible achievement for head coach Lionel Scaloni, who was dismissed as incapable by some when given the job back in 2018. Now, he will rank among the most successful coaches in the history of international soccer.
Argentina add the 2024 Copa America to their historic run of recent trophies, and there was more silverware on offer for La Albiceleste on Sunday night. Striker Lautaro Martinez wrapped up the Golden Boot with his decisive extra-time winner against Colombia.
Angel di Maria signs out for Argentina with another title
The 36-year-old announced recently that this summer's Copa America would be his final tournament with the national team. Already an icon, Di Maria ends with another trophy and departed from the field to a rapturous reception from all sides of Hard Rock Stadium.
Watch: Lionel Messi reacts to Lautaro Martinez' winning goal
Lionel Messi was not on the field to influence the game but he certainly enjoyed watching on as Lautaro Martinez scored the goal that makes Argentina Copa America champions.
Argentina celebrate another triumph
'Muchachos' - the song of Argentina's World Cup win - echoes around Hard Rock Stadium as the Argentinian supporter revel in another victory. Lionel Messi has his third major title with Argentina, Lionel Scaloni's side have entered the history books.
ARGENTINA WIN COPA AMERICA
They've done it! Argentina are back-to-back Copa America champions, it's their third international trophy in a row.
Truly, a team for the ages!
After a delay, the referee has awarded a drop ball to Argentina. The ball will now be pumped up-field by Martinez...
The referee has taken the ball off Martinez and seems to be telling him to wait.
Is it a VAR check? There was nothing obvious in phase before, nothing that seemed to demand a check.
We're into the last minute now and there's some heroic last-gasp defending from Argentina to keep their lead. The ball bounces around the box, chaos ensues, until Martinez is able to grab the ball and hold it close to his chest.
That could well be all.
There's nearly an opening for Lautaro Martinez, charging into the Colombia box. He takes one too many touches and the ball slips away from him, the chance gone.
We'll have two minutes of added time.
Colombia look to get something going but without James Rodriguez and Luis Diaz they look short on creativity.
Mateus Uribe picks up the ball 35 yards from goal and lets fly, sending his shot flying over the crossbar. Argentina won't mind that.
We're into the final minutes now.
Colombia come forward again down the left but resort to an aimless ball into the box, easily claimed by Emiliano Martinez in the middle. They're starting to look a little tired now.
Order is restored and Argentina make a substitution.
In his final game for the national team, Angel di Maria is taken off with a few minutes to go. Nicolas Otamendi comes on and takes his captain's armband.
It's all kicking off!
Tempers flare as there's a coming together in the Argentina box. The referee says no foul initially but Miguel Borja bumps into Lisandro Martinez in the aftermath.
Everyone gets involved with the pushing and shoving. Argentina manage to waste a few minutes.
The leading scorer in the tournament now has five goals and he may never score any as important as that one. He raced onto a precise through ball and lashed the ball past Vargas from the right.
Clinical from Martinez.
GOOOOOAAAAAALLLL! Lautaro Martinez
Argentina lead and it's Lautaro Martinez! Brilliant finish from the Inter striker!
Is that the goal that wins Copa America??
The corner kick is played short and Argentina get out swiftly to clear it for a throw-in.
Big chance for Miguel Borja!
A clever ball around the corner from Colombia sets Borja in on goal on the left. He tries to makes space for a shot but can't quite clear the Argentina defence and his effort is blocked.
Colombia corner.
Argentina come forward with Angel di Maria. He tries to curl in a cross from the right but it just evades Martinez in the middle.
The Argentina striker was lurking.
And we're back!
The second half of extra-time is underway at Hard Rock Stadium. Another 15 minutes, then penalties.
Argentina boast incredible secret weapon
We're now just 15 minutes away from penalties. If it comes down to it, you wouldn't want to be facing the Argentina stopper.
There's a sensation touch from Juan Quintero to get his team back on the attack but Colombia can't capitalise.
That's all from the first half, another 15 minutes to go.
There's semi-openings at both ends but neither team quite has the legs to make something definitive of the opportunities. The game is swaying jaggedly from one side of the field to the other, neither team able to impart their will.
Incredible defender form Argentina as Romero and Martinez fly into a block on the edge of the box. They win the ball but manage to clatter into each other, leaving them both sprawled on the turf.
This game is turning into a real felt of physical endurance.
There's a coming together on the halfway line between Castane and Molina. The Argentinian goes down holding his face, that looked like a sore one.
It's been a very bitty start to extra-time, very few real passages of play from either side. Can either team provide the relevant moment of quality to win this game before we head to penalties?
Triple change for Argentina. Fernandez, Mac Allister and Alvarez come off. Lo Celso, Paredes and Lautaro Martinez come on in their place.
Another chance for Gonzalez!
Clever run from De Paul to race in behind the Colombia defence and pull a ball back from the byline. His pass finds Nico Gonzalez on the penalty spot but his effort is weak and well-saved by Vargas.
That was the chance!
Based on these first few minutes, it looks like Colombia have benefitted from that break. They've got a bit more composure on the ball now, knocking the ball around with confidence along the backline.
Big change ahead of extra time. Colombia captain James Rodriguez is replaced, Juan Quintero comes on in his place.
And we're back!
We're into added time at Hard Rock Stadium. The 2024 Copa America final will be decided beyond the regulation 90 minutes.
Wondering what's going on? There's a subtle rule change for the Copa America final, meaning that we're now heading into 30 minutes of extra-time in search of a winner.
Here's everything you need to know...
All square after 90 minutes
We've had plenty of action, lots of excitement, but no goals so far. The 2024 Copa America final is heading in to extra time.
Colombia come forward with Mojica but he overruns the ball and Romero sees it out for a goal kick. That'll be all from normal time.
Big chance for Nico Gonzalez!
The Argentina corner is nodded down and lands at the feet of Gonzalez. He swivels and shoots but gets under the ball, sending it soaring over the crossbar.
Bit of panic at the back from Colombia and Jefferson Lerma slices a clearance out for an Argentina corner kick. Di Maria will take this from the left.
There's nearly an opening for Di Maria as he pounces on a loose touch in the Colombia backline. He's nearly in on goal but loses his footing, and subsequently the ball.
Argentina pushing hard now.
We're going to have four minutes of added time at the end of the second half.
Finally, a Colombia change. Jhon Cordoba is off, Santos Borré comes on.
Agonising for Argentina!
So close to a winner!
Di Maria arrows a long diagonal pass across to Nico Gonzalez at the back post. He nods the ball back across the face of goal but Alvarez is a little slow on the uptake and can't quite reach it to finish.
That could've been the game!
Di Maria goes deep with the corner kick but it's over the head of Romero at the back post. Colombia win the goal kick.
Incidentally, Colombia have not made a single change yet. Are there planning something big if this goes to extra time?
Clever ball forward from Molina wins Argentina a corner kick. No Messi on the field to take it so it'll be Di Maria to swing in the cross from the right.
Luis Diaz is furious after a foul is called for his challenge on Romero. It was a little harsh, maybe, but the challenge was clumsy.
Tempers are really fraying now, the tension is unbearable.
It is James Rodriguez who takes it but his effort thuds into the Argentina wall. A waster of a chance.
Late challenge on Jhon Arias on the edge of the Argentina box. Colombia win the free kick, left of center, in a dangerous position.
It looks like it'll be the left foot of James Rodriguez to take it...
Brilliant run from Nico Gonzalez on the left flank, darting into the box, but he loses his footing at the crucial moment and takes a tumble.
He's look dangerous for Argentina this tournament, will he provide the breakthrough?
Colombia win a free kick and James Rodriguez stands over it on the left flank. He curls in a dangerous delivery but the Colombia header is well off-target.
Injury for Argentina captain. / BUDA MENDES / Getty Images via AFP
Lionel Messi trudges from the field
Heartbreak for Lionel Messi at Hard Rock Stadium. Could this be the last time we see him in an Argentina jersey?
We're into the final 15 minutes of normal time now and the tension is high. A goal now could prove crucial, can either team find a way through?
Argentina goal ruled out!
Argentina substitute Nico Gonzalez has the ball in the back of the net but it's pulled back for an offside. Tagliafico had gone a little too far with his earlier run.
Correct decision, no goal.
VAR check - Penalty Colombia
Hold on, maybe that wasn't so good from Mac Allister, it's being checked for a potential penalty to Colombia.
Good opening for Colombia but Arias' progress is blocked from close range. Brave challenge from Mac Allister there.
Back to the action, Montiel does brilliantly to charge down the right flank for Argentina but is a little to eager and gives away a free kick as he enter the box. A good chance squandered.
Lionel Messi in tears on the bench
It doesn't look good for the Argentina captain, who is visibly crying after being forced from the field due to injury.
How will that affect his teammates in the remaining 23 minutes?
Lionel Messi hobbles off for Argentina. Nicolas Gonzalez comes on in his place.
Lionel Messi is down
The Argentina captain has called for attention, lying prone on the ground. He may not be able to continue here.
Alexis Mac Allister
The midfielder is booked for a late challenge near the touchline. This is getting heated now, tensions are rising...
Going back to that blocked Mac Allister header: The midfielder had appealed for a handball but the referee dismissed the claims.
However Argentina head coach Scaloni has just seen a replay of the incident and he is absolutely furious, charging up and down the touchline.
Another chance for Di Maria draws a good save from Vargas.
It'll be a corner kick to Argentina but Messi's set piece is cleared.
Brilliant from Di Maria on the left, tearing down the wing and curling in a cross for Mac Allister. His header is blocked and the ball is worked back to Messi, who can't quite make space for a shot.
Colombia have let the game drift away from them a little in the second half, failing to keep up the intensity that characterised their good play in the first 45. The intensity has definitely dropped and Argentina are benefitting.
Big chance for Colombia
James Rodriguez curls in a dangerous, whipped cross which is then nodded across the six-yard box. Davinson Sanchez is there to connect but his header flies over the crossbar.
Jhon Arias tries to step inside from the left and curl one past Martinez from distance. His effort is blocked and the ball spins out for a Colombia corner kick.
Argentina look to build out from the back but Luis Diaz is down after a clash with Lisandro Martinez. It was an aerial challenge, there didn't look to be much wrong with that from Martinez.
Mac Allister forces an opening!
Neat interplay from Alexis Mac Allister and Julian Alvarez allows the former to charge into the Colombia box. He can't quite get to the ball before Vargas and Argentina can't manufacture anything from the rebound.
It's a positive start though.
Lionel Messi has been able to resume play in the second half, perhaps aided by the lengthy 25-minute halftime break. He looks to be moving freely now.
Early opening for Colombia as Santiago Arias latches onto a cross from James Rodriguez. The Colombian full-back aims low and hard with his volley but is bounces past the post.
And we're back!
Colombia get things underway in the second half.
Players back out at Hard Rock Stadium
After an extended, 25-minute halftime break we're nearly ready for the second half.
Short but sweet from Shakira, here's the three songs sung at the Copa America halftime show...
Watch: Shakira's Copa America halftime show performance
Colombia are looking to win their first piece of silverware in 23 years. Who is better to perform than Colombian singer Shakira? Here's her show opener, 'Hips Don't Lie'...
Shakira's moved on to 'Te Felicito' for her second halftime song, her track with Rauw Alejandro.
Wondering how much it takes to book Shakira for an event like this? Here's everything you need to know...
Shakira takes to the stage!
First up, it's 'Hips Don't Lie' from the Colombian singer in the first-ever Copa America halftime show.
Another record for Lionel Messi!
A fifth Copa America final for the Argentina captain, will tonight's be his second win? The loss in the 2016 final was so devastating Lionel Messi announced his international retirement immediately after the defeat. Fortunately he changed his mind soon after and returned to lift the trophy in 2021.
Shakira's halftime show is coming up now
Next up this evening is a performance from a supremely-talented, globally-adored Colombian.
Nope, James Rodriguez isn't coming out early to do some keep-uppies. We're about to see Shakira's Copa America halftime show performance.
There is no shortage of Colombian stars on show this evening, but few draw a crowd like singer Shakira who will be performing in the halftime show. Here’s what we know about her performance, including a sneak peak at her Copa America setlist…
Next up, Shakira's halftime show
For the first time ever we'll have a halftime show in the Copa America final. We think that organisers have decided to extend the halftime break to 20 minutes to allow for a longer musical spectacle.
That might give Argentina more time to treat Lionel Messi's injury.
Halftime in the Copa America final
It's all square at the break! Colombia have had the better of the play but Argentina have created chances too.
It's all to play for at Hard Rock Stadium.
Rare burst of high-pressing from Lionel Messi nearly catches the Colombian backline out. The ball falls loose but Davinson Sanchez gets back to recover.
We'll have one minute of added time at the end of the first half.
It's a good cross and it finds the head of Tagliafico but the full-back's effort is over the bar.
Good work from Nicolas Tagliafico, charging in-field and winning a free kick for his team.
It's around 15 yards from the box, on the left flank. A good chance for Messi to delivery with quality here...
Argentina sweep the ball out to Enzo Fernandez on the right. He whips in a cross but it's easily blocked. Colombia try to clear but Argentina come straight back at them.
The world champions building some momentum now.
For the first time Argentina play easily through the Colombian midfield but a poor pass from Alvarez loses possession. We haven't really seen any consistency in the play from Argentina so far.
Ok, Lionel Messi is now back on the field but he's moving a little gingerly. He's hugging the left flank now, right in front of the coaches and medical staff.
Is Lionel Messi injured?
The 37-year-old is now off the field while the game continues. He's up and walking but is receiving treatment from the medical staff.
Potential injury to Lionel Messi
The Argentina captain is receiving medical treatment on the field now. He seems to be struggling with his right ankle, which got clamped under the challenge from Arias.
Sharp interplay from Argentina allows Lionel Messi to dart into the box. The angle is narrowed and he runs out of space to play a cross. He goes down under a challenge from Santiago Arias.
No foul, but Messi's in pain here.
The corner kick is swung in by James Rodriguez but easily repelled. He tries another delivery but the linesman flags for an offside in the middle.
Argentina regain possession.
Lionel Messi loses the ball with a poor touch and Colombia come straight back on the attack. Luis Diaz is repelled but the ball ends up back with Jefferson Lerma, who forces a smart save from Martinez from 35 yards.
Corner kick to Colombia...
Colombia are continuing to pin Argentina back in their own half, dominating the game. They haven't forged any real clear-cut chances but you sense that those openings are coming.
Jhon Cordoba
The Colombian striker is booked for a late challenge on Lisandro Martinez.
Colombia have a chance to break and work the ball out to Diaz on the left. He runs into traffic in the middle but Colombia retain possession and enjoy a spell of the ball inside the Argentina half.
The Argentina captain looks sharp in opening stages. / MADDIE MEYER / Getty Images via AFP
Return to form for Lionel Messi
He's looked a little off the pace for much of this summer's Copa America but Lionel Messi has started well this evening. He's already manufactured a chance for himself and has looked dangerous with his passing whenever he's on the ball.
Argentina are hassled by the Colombian attackers and Tagliafico has no option but to punt the ball out for a throw-in. Nestor Lorenzo's side look like an absolute nightmare to play against.
They may outnumbered numerically but the Argentinian contingent are really making their presence heard inside Hard Rock Stadium now.
Big chance for Lionel Messi!
Messi does well to work the ball out to Di Maria on the left, who pulls the ball back for his old friend. Messi pounces on the opportunity and fires at goal but strikes teammate Alvarez and the chance is gone.
That's better from Argentina, though.
There's now a spell of possession, a chance for Lionel Scaloni's side to get a grip of the game. They will be hoping to calm the largely-Colombian crowd and play their way into the game.
Argentina look a little off the pace in the opening minutes, unable to deal with the physicality of this Colombian side. We might see some more robust challenges going in before too long.
James Rodriguez curls in a cross but it's too deep and Martinez comes out to claim comfortably.
Four of James' six assists at this summer's tournament have come from set pieces. A big chance for him to deliver from the right here...
James Rodriguez is already having a real influence on this game, finding pockets of space within this busy Argentina midfield. He really is a lovely player to watch.
And with that, Alexis Mac Allister hacks him down in midfield. Free kick to Colombia.
Colombia continue to push and Arias forces a dramatic clearance from Lisandro Martinez with another teasing cross. Argentina clear the resultant corner kick.
A rare poor touch for Angel di Maria as he fails to control a raking diagonal pass. Is there another finals goal for him tonight, on his final Argentina appearance?
Another good move from Colombia with Arias on the right flank. He curls a cross into the middle but Cordoba can't get his header on target.
Argentina looking a bit rattled here...
Big chance for Cordoba!
Clever touch from James Rodriguez to slip away from Alvarez and make room for himself.
James lifts a pass forward and it lands at the feet of Jhon Cordoba, whose volleys effort is just wide of the post. So close!
Luis Diaz picks up the ball on the left for Colombia and charges at the Argentina backline. He cuts inside onto his right foot but his tame effort is easily saved by Emi Martinez.
Argentina try to break and Messi clips a pass over the Colombia defence for Alvarez. The City man scurries forward but the ball hits him on the back of the head and bounces away from him.
The outswinging corner is easily defended and Colombian win a goal kick after some good defensive work from James Rodriguez.
Argentina win a corner kick as Tagliafico skips past Arias on the left flank. Sanchez comes across to block for Colombia.
Messi trots across to take the corner...
Fast start in Miami as Colombia come forward now with Luis Diaz. His run comes to nothing, but he'll be a real danger man for Colombia tonight.
Early opening for Argentina!
Brilliant footwork from Messi gets Argentina clear down the right flank. The ball is swung into the middle but Alvarez can't connect cleanly and his effort trickles wide.
Good start from Scaloni's team.
And we're off!
Argentina get us underway at Hard Rock Stadium...
Another look at the Argentina and Colombia team news
In fairness, it's been a while since the lineups were confirmed. There's no real surprises for either team in the Copa America final. The only real decision was Colombia's replacement for the suspended Daniel Monuz. Santiago Arias comes in to replace him.
Now onto the anthems
Everyone rise for the two national anthems. First up, Argentina...
Teams are out for Copa America final!
Both Argentina and Colombia take to the field at Hard Rock Stadium, Miami. There were chaotic scenes in the build-up but that lengthy delay looks to have allowed all fans to enter the stadium and the stands are packed.
What an occasion!
Shakira has given a message of support to her Colombian compatriots ahead of the Copa America final against Argentina. “See you this Sunday at the Copa América final!” she posted on social media after Colombia’s hard-fought semi-final victory over Uruguay, hinting at her own performance in Miami.
Shakira will be performing at the first ever Copa America halftime show, taking to the stage at Hard Rock Stadium.
Lionel Messi looking sharp for Argentina
Kickoff is fast approaching now and both teams have now returned to the locker rooms before making the big entrance. Just minutes earlier Lionel Messi was out on the turf, warming up alongside his Argentina teammates.
It's difficult to know how this lengthy delay will affect both teams. You'd imagine that Argentina, with vast experience in finals, are better-able to deal with the disruption.
The Colombia boss can make history in Copa America. / CHANDAN KHANNA / AFP
Nestor Lorenzo: "We need to be the best Colombia"
Nestor Lorenzo is just 90 minutes form immortality, leading Colombia to just the second major trophy in their history. Speaking to reporters this week he was confident, but under no illusions about the scale of the challenge.
"We need to be the best Colombia, the best version, to beat Argentina, the champions of everything," Lorenzo said ahead of the final. "To win against Argentina we have to be very well prepared, because they are the champions, it will be a very demanding match”
James Rodriguez stars for Colombia
The renaissance of James Rodriguez has been one of the absolute joys of this summer's Copa America. The 32-year-old was recalled to the national team by Nestor Lorenzo and has shown his talents for Colombia, recording six assists in his first five games of this year's tournament.
Is there a historic crowning performance to come from James?
Right then, back to the Copa America action
With the players back on the field I think we can safely assume that we will get some on-pitch action fairly soon. So, let's take a look at Colombia, who are targeting their second-ever international trophy.
Despite that inglorious past Colombia come into the game on an incredible run of form, having not lost a game since head coach Nestor Lorenzo took over in June 2022. Over that time El tri have claimed a number of prestigious scalps. Colombia beat Germany (2-0) and Spain (1-0) in friendlies and overcame Brazil (2-1) in a World Cup qualifier in November last year.
After a third delay, it looks like a start date is now set. / BUDA MENDES / Getty Images via AFP
BREAKING: Kickoff pushed back to 9:15pm
What do you want first, the good news or the bad news?
OK the bad news is that kickoff has been pushed back to 9:15pm (ET), a 75-minute delay on the scheduled start time. But the good news is that both teams have resumed their warmups and the stadium is filling nicely. We should be good to go without any further delays.
Colombia are out at Hard Rock Stadium!
And now Nestor Lorenzo's side are out to resume their preparations.
The stands are filling up nicely and there's a huge Colombian contingent in the house.
Argentina take to the field!
Finally, some good news! The Argentina players resume their warmups at Hard Rock Stadium, suggesting that kickoff is now approaching. We'll likely see another delay on the current 8:45pm (ET) kickoff time, but there shouldn't be too much more to wait.
What's the latest at Hard Rock Stadium?
Well, ten minutes out from the rescheduled kickoff time there is still no sign of either team on the field. The stands are starting to fill up but, without warm-ups underway on the turf, if hard to see this one starting in the next 11 minutes.
It looks almost certain that we'll have to have another delay here. This must be a logistical nightmare for players and coaches, forced to put their preparations on pause for an hour.
Copa America kickoff time pushed back to 8:45pm
Here we go. As expected, the start time has been updated to 8:45pm local time, a 45-minute delay on the initial kickoff time. It looks like things are moving in the right direction though, the stands of Hard Rock Stadium are starting to fill up.
Ticketless fans have been the issue so far this evening and ticketing has been a problem throughout the tournament. Organisers have pushed up prices for this year's tournament and there is a concern that supporters are being priced out.
Of course, this does not excuse the actions of the fans who stormed the stadium earlier today.
What time is kickoff in the Copa America final?
As it stands, the start time is still set for the slightly delayed time of 8:30pm (ET) but that's looking increasingly likely. We're less than 20 minutes away from that time but there are still no players on the field to resume their warm-ups.
It looks almost certain that the kickoff will have to be pushed back once again.
Watch: Fans tackled by police at Copa America final
Bedlam erupted at Hard Rock Stadium as police were forced to crack down on gate crashers. Dozens of fans without tickets were able to breach the perimeter and make it into the concourse area of the venue. Officials are now dealing with a security issue because those intruders will not have been subject to the normal checks upon entry.
Chaos continues outside Hard Rock Stadium
Local police, who have got a thankless task this evening, are still struggling to deal with the fallout from the breaching of the stadium perimeter. Kickoff is set for 25 minutes but it's unclear if we'll be able to get underway as scheduled.
Let's see how tonight unfolds...
Law enforcement release statement on Copa America delay
“We have had several incidents prior to the gates opening at Hard Rock Stadium for the Copa America final game."
“These incidents have been a result of the unruly behavior of fans trying to access the stadium.
“We are asking everyone to be patient, and abide by the rules set by our officers and Hard Rock Stadium personnel. We are actively working with Hard Rock Stadium to ensure a safe environment for all those attending. Unruly behavior will get you ejected and/or arrested."
More on the situation at Hard Rock Stadium...
Authorities and logistics operators tried to control the avalanche of people, tackling many of the intruders to the ground. The game is due to start in 30 minutes, but it's not yet clear if that will be possible.
Anyway, back to the action...
Heading into this final there is very little to choose between the two teams. Argentina, the reigning World Cup and Copa America champions, have incredible pedigree but they come up against a Colombia side in red-hot form. Colombia have not lost a single game in Nestor Lorenzo’s two years in charge and they have beaten the likes of Spain, Germany and Brazil in that time. If tonight’s game ends even, here’s what to expect…
Official CONMEBOL statement on Copa America delay
The Copa America organisers have reiterated that it was the actions of ticketless fans that has sparked the issues at Miami's Hard Rock Stadium. Questions will have to be asked of the organisers' ability to deal with large, impassioned crowds like we see this evening.
Arrests made as fans storm Copa América final
Chaos at Hard Rock Stadium as Colombian fans breach the gates at the Copa América final. The game has been delayed by 30 minutes as a result, highlighting the extent of the trouble in Miami.
It remains to be seen how the delay will affect tonight's on-field action.
Confirmation of Copa America final delay
Argentina and Colombia players were halfway through their warmup when the decision to delay the game was made. Both teams were then forced to leave the field and return to the locker room.
Chaos in Miami ahead of kickoff in this high-profile game, in a tournament billed as a tester for the 2026 World Cup.
Why is the Copa America final delayed?
This was the scene at Hard Rock Stadium in the last hour, ticketless fans streaming through a breached gate and into the stadium. This caused the gate to be closed by police and fans with tickets are struggling to enter the venue.
As a result, kickoff has been pushed back to 8:30pm local time. That's a delay of 30 minutes.
Players escorted off the field during warm-up!
In a move believed to be related to the earlier crowd trouble, the teams' pregame preparations have been halted. The stadium is reportedly on lockdown.
Chaotic scenes in Miami!
Argentina boss ready for Copa America final
"It's a final and each one has its nuances. Our football is not going to change. One of the nice things about football is that you can plan a match and then it turns out very different. We have to try not to miss any detail”
"The final finds us in a good moment. I don't think the team has played worse than it had been doing before, taking into account the rivals and the heat. I don't know if it's the best moment, but we're doing well.”
Colombia look to make history in Copa America final. / BUDA MENDES / Getty Images via AFP
When was the last time Colombia won an international trophy?
Along time ago.
The only major tournament win in Colombia’s history came in 2001, when they lifted Copa America on home soil. However even that triumph comes with a slight asterisk.
The tournament was beset by issues after concern about security in Colombia, with the Copa initially cancelled before subsequently reinstated. As such, Argentina did not send a team and many of Brazil’s star players did not travel to Colombia to compete. However Colombia did manage to hold the tournament and came out on top, finishing as champions without conceding a single goal.
Police have confirmed that arrests have been made at Hard Rock Stadium. / JUAN MABROMATA / AFP
Copa America final marred by fan trouble
Officials are dealing with a serious incident ahead of the Copa America final. We don't yet know whether all gates have been reopened at the stadium but a large backlog of ticketed fans has started to grow at the southeast side of the stadium.
It remains to be seen if the kickoff time, now just 40 minutes away, will need to be pushed back.
Supporters have been arrested after storming through a gate at the Copa America final, forcing officials to close one corner of the stadium. Dozens of fans can be seen sprinting through an entrance and dodging police as they try to make it inside the venue.
Watch: Fans storm the gates at Copa America final
More footage of dozens of supporters streaming past security at the 2024 Copa America final. Police are thought to have now regained order but a number of the entrances in this area are still closed.
It remains to be seen if this disruption will delay the start of the game. More news to follow...
Hard Rock Stadium locked down after fan incursion
Anyway, back to the latest from the unfolding drama in Miami. As kickoff approaches police were forced to close a gate at Hard Rock Stadium after supporters, presumed to be ticketless, stormed into the venue. Rule-abiding supporters, currently stuck outside, are not happy.
Now that we know the two teams, what's your prediction?
From soccer to football, Dallas Cowboys kicker Brandon Aubrey was selected 21st overall in the 2017 MLS SuperDraft before switching to the NFL two years later. Ahead of tonight’s Copa America final, Aubrey has cast his expert eye over the two teams…
And here's the Colombia team to take on Argentina
Few surprises for Colombia either. With regular right-back Daniel Monuz suspended former Atletico Madrid and FC Cincinnati full-back Santiago Arias comes in to replace him. Hames Rodriguez wears the captain's armband.
Argentina team news!
Here's how the world and continental champions will line up this evening. As expected, no major changes from Lionel Scaloni. Angel Di Maria starts in his final international appearance.
BREAKING: Fans storm the gates at Copa America final
Unticketed fans appear to have breached the gates at Hard Rock Stadium. The supporters look to have forced their way into the stadium and law enforcement are attempting to prevent further intrusions.
More on this as it develops...
Colombia boss confident for Copa America challenge
"Every day overcoming an obstacle means you grow and we have had several games with these types of situations, that made us reinvent ourselves in the game and the team reacted."
"We are in a very good moment, I think the team still has room for improvement and we hope to have a great performance tomorrow and take a step forward in that sense as well”
Colombia fans dominate at Copa America final
The atmosphere is building ahead of kickoff and a sea of yellow is swarming the walls of Hard Rock Stadium, Miami. The Colombian support is famously vociferous and there's a huge number of yellow-shirted fans in attendance, long before the game is due to begin.
Argentina supporters could well find themselves outnumbered here!
Argentina and Lionel Messi arrive for Copa America final
They're in the house! The reigning World Cup and Copa America champions are looking to make it three in a row this evening and head coach Lionel Scaloni has a full squad to pick from.
We're expecting team news from Hard Rock Stadium fairly shortly. We'll bring it to you as soon as we have it...
Who will win Golden Ball at Copa America?
Well, at the moment there's a clear winner. James Rodriguez's career looked to be fading out until a recall to the national team saw him rediscover his best form. Given license to roam freely by Nestor Lorenzo, James has laid on a Copa America-record six assists in this summer's tournament and leads the Sofascore ratings.
Does he have one more key contribution to give today?
Is this the Argentina team for the Copa America final?
Argentinian journalist Gaston Edul is rarely wrong about these sort of things. He expects Argentina to start with the same front six that started the 2022 World Cup final against France. Angel di Maria is expected to start in his final game for the national team, alongside Lionel Messi and Julian Alvarez.
Preparations underway in Miami
Will this be the last time that we see the famous 'Messi 10' Argentina jersey in a final? Lionel Messi is looking to lead his team to a historic third consecutive major title today, a feat only achieved by the iconic Spain team of 2008-2012.
Is Lionel Messi injured? The 37-year-old was forced has been struggling with muscular issues in recent years and Messi was forced to sit out Argentina’s final group stage game against Peru after picking up a knock in the win over Chile. Speaking ahead of the final, Messi revealed his fears about sustaining a crucial injury…
Colombia leave for Hard Rock Stadium, Miami
After having just 72 to recover from their exhausting semi-final victory over Uruguay, Nestor Lorenzo's Colombia must now face their greatest test. His side are just two hours away from kickoff in the 2024 Copa America final and they are on the way to the stadium now.
Since taking over in the summer of 2022, after Colombia failed to qualify for the World Cup in Qatar, Lorenzo has overseen an incredible turnaround in the national team’s fortunes. The appointment of an Argentine was controversial in Colombia but his team’s performances have got the country on his side, leading Colombia to an incredible 28-game unbeaten streak.
Colombia legend Radamel Falcao sends his support
Former Atletico Madrid, Porto and Manchester United forward Radamel Falcao remains Colombia's all-time record goalscorer. He's no longer a part of the national team set-up but the iconic forward has sent a message to the team ahead of today's final.
"Your selection, mine, everyone's selection... God bless you guys! Let's go Colombia" he writes.
Two years ago, after failing to qualify for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, Colombian soccer was in a bleak place. But head coach Nestor Lorenzo has turned that around and Colombia head into today’s final on an incredible unbeaten streak, stretching back to the very start of Lorenzo’s tenure. With a win over Argentina the Colombia head coach can write his name into sporting history. Here’s how we think he will line up at Hard Rock Stadium…
Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni has brought some much-needed calm to the frantic, do-or-die world of Argentinian soccer. Scaloni, who had precious little coaching experience before taking charge of the national team in 2018, has now led the two to back-to-back international trophies and has built a solid, cohesive team that gets the best out of its stars.
Here’s how we think he’ll start tonight…
Final time for Angel di Maria and Argentina
The legendary wideman has enjoyed a storied career with the national team and has taken Argentina to real highs in recent years. He scored crucial goals in the final of both the 2021 Copa America and the 2022 World Cup, both of which were won by Argentina.
Is there one final Di Maria highlight to come tonight?
We’ll be bringing you full live coverage of the Copa America final right here on AS USA. The two most in-form teams in the Americas go head-to-head in the final and you can choose to watch or stream Argentina - Colombia in the United States. Here’s everything you need to know…
Argentina take on Colombia in the Copa America final
Few would argue that Argentina and Colombia are the two strongest teams in this summer's competition, both of whom boast impressive records in recent years.
Argentina are the holders of both the World Cup and Copa America, and are looking to become just the second team in international soccer history to win three consecutive trophies.
Meanwhile Colombia are on an incredible 28-game unbeaten run under head coach Nestor Lorenzo, a spell that has seen them beat the likes of Brazil, Spain and Germany. They are looking to end their 23-year wait for silverware.
Hard Rock Stadium, Miami. / BUDA MENDES / Getty Images via AFP
Live: Argentina take on Colombia in Copa America final
It's here. After four weeks of thrilling competition we've arrived at the end-game, the final of the 2024 Copa America.
Argentina and Colombia prepare to face off for continental bragging rights at Miami's Hard Rock Stadium. I'm Will Gittins, AS USA soccer writer, and I'll be bringing you all of the action as the CONMEBOL giants go head to head.
Away we go...