Messi’s Injury Scare Can’t Deter Argentina’s Copa America Glory
Argentina’s quest for Copa America glory was put to the test on Sunday, as they faced off against Colombia in the final. But despite a nasty ankle injury to their talisman Lionel Messi, the Albiceleste were able to seal a win thanks to Lautaro Martinez’s winner in extra time.
As the clock ticked down, Messi’s teammates and fans held their breath as he limped off the pitch, leaving the fate of the game in the hands of his colleagues. But it was a relief to see the world champions emerge victorious, and Angel Di Maria, who was playing his last game for Argentina, was over the moon.
"I’m not happy because he had to leave that way because of his ankle problem," Di Maria said, echoing the sentiments of everyone in the stadium. "But finally today, we were able to win it for him. Give him joy, he deserves it. It was a great night."
Di Maria, who has been a stalwart for Argentina over the years, was visibly emotional as he reflected on the team’s journey. "I dreamed that it would play out like this, that we’d reach the final and that we would win it in this way," he said. "I don’t know what to say. I’m eternally grateful to this generation of players. This is the best way it could have ended."
The win marked Argentina’s second Copa America title, with Di Maria capping off his international career with 31 goals from 145 appearances. The 36-year-old also recalled the team’s struggles in the past, losing three big finals in three years. "It seems easy but it’s very difficult," he said. "We experienced what it was like to be on the other side for 10 or 11 years. We tried as hard as we could but couldn’t win [a major tournament]. Now we’re having success and we have to enjoy it."
As Argentina lift the Copa America trophy, fans around the world are left to ponder the what-ifs. What if Messi’s injury had been more severe? What if Colombia had managed to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat? But for now, it’s all about celebrating the triumph of the Albiceleste.
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