“Rigged for Messi” “Another robbery” - Fans react as Argentina are crowned Copa America 2024 champions
Fans have taken to social media to react after Lionel Messi led Argentina to victory against Colombia in the Copa America 2024 final on Sunday, July 14. The legendary playmaker got injured and was on the sidelines in tears after 66 minutes, but he was pleased to watch his teammates finish the job.
It was a brilliant defensive performance from the Argentinians, as they seemed to struggle at first but grew into the game and held off their opponents. Without their talisman, the country rallied together and continued the fight. It eventually came to fruition in extra time when Giovani Lo Celso and Lautaro Martinez combined to give the Albiceleste the only goal of the game.
Martinez's effort went over the goalkeeper and into the back of the net, leaving Argentina to defend well and end the game with a clean sheet. Fans took to X to react afterwards:
"As we all knew Copa America was rigged for Messi," a fan argued.
"Di Maria’s last ever game for Argentina. What a career. Legendary. Retires as a top 5 player in Argentina’s history, only behind Messi, Maradona, Kempes, and maybe Passarella." a fan praised Angel Di Maria.
"Di maria thank you for everything🙏," another said.
"ARGENTINA WON IT FOR THE GOAT," a happy fan claimed.
"Pessi carried again," a fan mocked.
"Another robbery. Disgraceful," another mocked the win.
"Argentina won the copa America without this cheerleader 📣 😭😂 he was holding this Lautaro Martinez and this Argentina super team back they play better without him on the pitch 😭" another fan trolled.
"Congratulations to Argentina and Messi. He has finally cemented his G.O.A.T statue," another added.
"POV: Argentina played better after he left the pitch," a fan said.
"Big Redemption for Messi after being subbed off due to an injury. Well deserved! ♥" another said.
Another fan added:
Lionel Messi had hoped Angel Di Maria would retire from Argentina duty with a goal
Prior to the game against Colombia, Lionel Messi shared his hopes that Angel Di Maria would potentially retire from international football with a goal. The 36-year-old has spent 15 years playing for the Albiceleste, and he notably called an end to his national career.
Di Maria has had some impressive moments in his career, scoring in the Copa America final in 2021 and the World Cup final in 2022. The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner told Direct TV Sports (via Daily Post):
“Who knows, maybe he’ll score another goal in the final like he did in all the previous ones he’s played in. It would be extraordinary.”
While Di Maria didn't score, he got to complete his national career on a high, securing a trophy with his country. The winger has yet to hang up his boots entirely, as he still plays for Benfica.