Argentina defeat Brazil 1-0 to win the CONMEBOL Copa América 2021

[Firebat]

The 2021 Copa America will be hosted by Brazil, after Argentina was stripped of the tournament just two weeks before it starts.

The South American Football Confederation (Conmebol) said Argentina was removed as host because of the "present circumstances".

The country is currently experiencing a surge in Covid-19 cases.

Later on Monday, Conmebol confirmed Brazil would host the showpiece event, which starts on 13 June.

No stadiums have yet been announced for the tournament in Brazil.

Argentina was originally set to co-host with Colombia, who were removed on 20 May with wide-spread protests sweeping the country.

Opposition to the tournament had grown both inside and outside Argentina's government, while Uruguay striker Luis Suarez told reporters on Friday that priority had to be given "to the health of human beings".

Brazil are defending champions, having won the tournament in 2019.

https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/57304063

 

[GenericBrand]

Isn't Brazil in just as bad of a situation as Argentina, if not worse?

 

[Last Monetarist]

That's a fairly bizarre decision by Conmebol, unsurprising given their history of shambolic short-term decisions.

As always putting player safety below money in the list of priorities.

 

[ChTab]

Horrible horrible decision by CONMEBOL

 

[MenInG]

The 2021 Copa America will be hosted by Brazil, after Argentina was stripped of the tournament just two weeks before it starts.

The South American Football Confederation (Conmebol) said Argentina was removed as host because of the "present circumstances".

The country is currently experiencing a surge in Covid-19 cases.

Later on Monday, Conmebol confirmed Brazil would host the showpiece event, which starts on 13 June.

"Conmebol thanks the president @jairbolsonaro and his team, as well as the Brazilian Football Confederation for opening the doors of that country to what is today the safest sporting event in the world. South America will shine in Brazil with all its stars!" Conmebol said on Twitter.

But Mr Bolsonaro's chief of staff warned that there is "no done deal yet" and tough conditions would have to be met.

"We are in the middle of the process (of negotiations). But, we will not shy away from a demand that, if it's possible to be done, it could be done," Luiz Ramos said.

It is not known which stadiums would host the tournament if it goes ahead.

Argentina was originally set to co-host with Colombia, who were removed on 20 May with wide-spread protests sweeping the country.

Opposition to the tournament had grown both inside and outside Argentina's government, while Uruguay striker Luis Suarez told reporters on Friday that priority had to be given "to the health of human beings".

On 22 May Argentina went into a new nine-day lockdown after seeing 35,000 new cases each day that week.

Meanwhile, in Brazil, protests over the management of the Covid-19 pandemic by the government of President Jair Bolsonaro took place on Saturday.

Brazil has registered nearly 460,000 deaths - the second-highest toll in the world after the United States. It also has the third-highest number of recorded coronavirus cases at more than 16 million.

Brazil's Senate is holding an inquiry into the Bolsonaro government's handling of the pandemic and the slow roll-out of the vaccine programme.

Brazil are defending champions, having won the tournament in 2019.

"Bizarre" and "out of touch". That's how Brazilians have labelled Conmebol's surprise decision to move the Copa America to a country which continues to be a hotspot in the pandemic, with an average of 2,000 deaths a day. Even if the matches end up being played behind closed doors.

When you take into account that the previous host, Argentina, was removed because of its struggle to contain the virus, the move becomes even harder to explain.

Brazilian cities are experiencing an upsurge in infections as restrictions are lifted and many people continue to ignore advice to socially distance and wear masks.

Intensive Care Unit beds are full, and the vaccination campaign is progressing very slowly.

It is all about money. Cancelling the event, which many say would have been the most sensible decision, would have resulted in huge losses for the organisers.

And it is also about Brazil's president who, it seems, gave his backing to the country becoming a last-minute host.

Jair Bolsonaro opposes lockdowns, face masks and, some months back, even raised doubts about the vaccine.

He has been accused of doing very little to control the virus, so some commentators have argued that agreeing to host a massive sporting event as the pandemic rages on is very much in the Bolsonaro style.

BBC

 

[Last Monetarist]

https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/jun/01/bolsonaro-brazil-copa-america-hosting-pandemic-coronavirus

The Brazilian president, Jair Bolsonaro, has sparked outrage after approving plans to hold South America’s answer to the European Championship in his Covid-stricken country despite warnings Brazil is steaming into a potentially calamitous third wave of infections.

The Copa América was originally due to be co-hosted by Colombia and Argentina, but their struggles with deadly street protests and coronavirus put paid to those plans.

On Monday, in a surprise move, the South American Football Confederation, Conmebol, announced that Brazil, which has the world’s second highest Covid death toll, would host the footballing event between 13 June and 17 July. “I want to say a special thanks to President Jair Bolsonaro and his cabinet for hosting the tournament,” tweeted Conmebol’s Paraguayan president, Alejandro Domínguez.

The announcement caused an immediate outcry in Brazil, where more than 462,000 lives have been lost in a Covid outbreak Bolsonaro stands accused of catastrophically mishandling.

Renan Calheiros, a Brazilian senator who is the rapporteur of a congressional inquiry into Bolsonaro’s Covid response, condemned the “unbelievable” idea of holding what he claimed would be a “championship of death”. Calheiros urged Brazilian players such as Neymar to refuse to take to the field “while your relatives and acquaintances continue to die”.

Juca Kfouri, one of Brazil’s top sports writers, branded the competition the “Cova América” or “Grave of the Americas”.

“There is no justification for bringing nine South American teams, and potentially new variants, to one of the epicentres of the pandemic, wasting resources and attention that should be directed towards our thousands of infected patients,” he wrote.

Others called the competition as the “Cepa América” – “the Strain of the Americas” – and demanded the Brazilian government reversed its decision which comes with an average of nearly 2,000 lives still being lost each day.

“This is shameful,” one of Brazil’s best-known commentators, Luís Roberto, told the SporTV network. “It’s a provocation. It is a slap in the face of all Brazilians.”

There was little sign Bolsonaro’s administration was rethinking its move on Tuesday. “As far as it’s up to me, and all the ministers – health included – it’s a done deal,” the far-right populist told supporters outside the presidential residence.

South America is one of the regions worst-hit by the Covid pandemic, with Argentina, Colombia, Paraguay and Uruguay all enduring the most dramatic moments of their epidemics.

On Monday, Peru revealed that its true Covid death toll was nearly three times the official figure of 68,000, with at least 180,000 fatalities. More than 1 million lives have been lost to the disease across Latin America and the Caribbean, about a third of the official global total, even though the region is home to less than 9% of the world’s population.

 

[MenInG]

Brazil's president has defended its hosting of the Copa America tournament despite the raging Covid pandemic.

There has been widespread criticism after the South American Football Association (Conmebol) announced on Monday that Brazil would be hosting the event, due to start next week.

A Supreme Court judge has ordered President Jair Bolsonaro to provide more information on the decision.

Brazil has been hit hard by the pandemic, with nearly 463,000 deaths.

Mr Bolsonaro said the decision was not up for discussion and that the tournament, which involves players across South America, did not pose a health risk.

He said on Tuesday that he had spoken with the health minister and they had agreed to host the event.

'We have to live'
"As far as it is up to me, and all the ministers, including the health minister, it is all decided," Mr Bolsonaro told his supporters in Brasilia.

"From the beginning I have said about the pandemic: I regret the deaths, but we have to live," he added.

But the decision has been criticised by a number of lawmakers in the country.

One senator, Otto Alencar appealed to star Brazilian footballer Neymar for assistance.

"Neymar, I want to tell you something: You shouldn't agree with the holding of this America's Cup in Brazil! Don't agree to this. It is not this championship that we need to now compete in. We need to compete in the vaccination championship," he said.

The Supreme Court has given Mr Bolsonaro five days to submit information on the government's decision to host the tournament after the opposition Workers' Party filed a suit objecting to the tournament.

Mr Bolsonaro has announced that four states including Rio de Janeiro will host the matches however fans will not be able to attend. At least six states said they would not be hosting matches due to the pandemic, AFP news agency reports.

The Copa America was originally set to be co-hosted by Argentina and Colombia in 2020 but the tournament was pushed back a year due to the pandemic.

Colombia were removed as hosts last month amid widespread protests against the government, with Argentina later stripped of the role too due to rising Covid-19 cases.

BBC

 

[MenInG]

Brazil's Supreme Court announced Tuesday that it would hold a hearing over the controversial hosting of the Copa America, set to start this Sunday.

Brazil was selected as a last-minute emergency venue for the South American football championship after previous co-hosts Colombia and Argentina were unable to host the event.

Scheduled just days before Copa America is due to begin, the session is based on two requests to block Brazil from hosting the tournament.

"Given the extraordinary nature of the case, I hereby grant the request to include the matter in an extraordinary virtual session of the court, to be held on Thursday, June 10," chief justice of the 11-member court Luiz Fux said.

The Supreme Court agreed to hear two cases brought by the national metalworkers' union CNTM and by opposition Congressman Julio Delgado and his Brazilian Socialist Party (PSB).

CNTM argued that hosting Copa America "risks causing an increase in COVID-19 infections and deaths," the court said in a statement announcing it had agreed to hear the cases.

Delgado and PSB said hosting would violate "fundamental rights to life and health," also citing coronavirus concerns.

Other courts had also received requests to block the tournament, which will take place without supporters in attendance.

The left-wing Workers' Party (PT) of former President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, who is likely to be President Jair Bolsonaro's main rival in the next election, also filed a similar request.

What is the controversy surrounding the tournament?
The Copa America was initially planned to be held in eight stadiums in Argentina and Colombia. Those plans were scrapped due to concerns over the spread of COVID-19 in Argentina and the anti-government unrest in Colombia.

But Brazil has also consistently struggled during the pandemic, which has claimed nearly 475,000 lives in the South American country, second only to the United States.

Epidemiologists, coaches and players from the countries participating have voiced alarm that the tournament could exacerbate the coronavirus crisis in Brazil.

The tournament has become a politically loaded matter in Brazil. Far-right president Bolsonaro, who has a reputation for defying expert advice on COVID-19, gave his blessing to host the Copa America.

Brazil's Health Minister Marcelo Queiroga defended Brazil as host of Copa America before a Senate inquiry on the government's handling of pandemic response.

"With no attendance in the stadia we will not have the risk of gatherings and bigger contagion,'' Queiroga said earlier Tuesday. "The risk for a person to contract COVID-19 will be the same with the matches on or without them. I am not saying there will be no risks, I am saying there is no additional risk.''

Brazil said fans would not be allowed to attend matches, COVID-19 testing would be mandatory for teams every 48 hours. Officials also said players' movement would be restricted, and chartered flights would carry them to games in the four host cities.

The Copa America was already delayed last year because of the pandemic.

Brazil and Venezuela are scheduled to open the Copa America Sunday evening in Brasilia, unless Thursday's hearing puts a stop to the plans.

https://www.dw.com/en/copa-america-brazils-top-court-to-consider-halting-tournament/a-57821371

 

[MenInG]

The Copa America, which is set to start on Sunday, can go ahead in Brazil, the country's Supreme Court has decided.

Judges held an emergency session on Thursday to consider requests to halt the competition because of the coronavirus pandemic.

It was argued that hosting the tournament would endanger the lives of thousands of people.

The judges said that the Brazilian constitution did not give the court the power to block it.

But they said that state governors and city mayors should do more to ensure "appropriate health protocols" are respected.

They also expressed their dismay at President Jair Bolsonaro's last-minute decision to stage the tournament, which will be held with no fans in stadiums.

Teams face mandatory testing every 48 hours. Their movements will be restricted and they will travel to host cities aboard chartered flights.

The tournament, postponed from 2020 because of the coronavirus pandemic, was originally to have been staged in Colombia and Argentina.

But Colombia was removed as co-host on 20 May because of domestic civil unrest, and Argentina was then stripped of its host status on 30 May, with organisers citing coronavirus concerns and the "present circumstances".

Earlier this week, Brazil's players criticised the decision to hold the tournament in their country.

Brazil has recorded more than 475,000 deaths attributed to coronavirus, the second highest number in the world after the US.

BBC

 

[MenInG]

Twelve of Venezuela's players and coaching staff have tested positive for Covid-19 a day before their Copa America opener against hosts Brazil.

All of those to test positive were asymptomatic and have been isolated in a hotel.

The South American Football Confederation (Conmebol) is yet to confirm if Sunday's match will proceed.

Venezuela arrived in Brazil, the last-minute hosts of the tournament, on Friday.

Defenders Wilker Angel and Rolf Feltscher did not travel with the squad after they tested positive for coronavirus on Thursday.

Venezuela's fixture against Brazil is scheduled to be the opening fixture of the 10-team competition which runs until 10 July.

 

[Firebat]

The tournament kicks off now with Brazil vs Venezuela, followed by Columbia vs Ecuador.

Brazil surely heavy favourites to be champions. Messi and Argentina always fail in this tournament.

 

[Saj]

Brazil ahead versus Venezuela.

 

[MenInG]

Hosts Brazil began the defence of their Copa America title with a comfortable 3-0 victory over a Covid-affected Venezuela in the tournament's opening match.

Talisman Neymar scored one and assisted another, adding a second for Tite's side with a second-half penalty before setting up Gabriel Barbosa late on.

Paris St-Germain defender Marquinhos bundled in a 23rd-minute opener after Venezuela failed to clear a corner.

Nine-time winners Brazil won a first Copa America title in 12 years in 2019.

Twelve of Venezuela's players and coaching staff tested positive for Covid-19 a day before their opening match in Group A, which also includes Colombia, Ecuador and Peru.

Everton forward Richarlison had a first-half goal disallowed for offside and Neymar missed from close range as Brazil initially struggled to make their dominance count.

Neymar scored his 67th international goal after Yohan Cumana fouled Danilo, but he missed another great chance to move closer to Pele's national record of 77, shooting wide after breaking through the Venezuela defence in the closing stages.

The PSG forward then rounded goalkeeper Joel Graterol before squaring to substitute Barbosa for a tap-in.

The 47th edition of the Copa America - delayed a year because of the coronavirus outbreak - is taking place in Brazil, after Colombia and Argentina were stripped of the tournament.

The South American Football Confederation (Conmebol) removed Colombia as co-hosts in May amid anti-government protests and Argentina were later replaced because of rising Covid-19 cases in the country.

The BBC is broadcasting all 28 games from the 2021 Copa America, which runs until 10 July and features the 10 Conmebol nations.

 

[Saj]

Colombia opened up their Copa America participation on Sunday with a narrow 1-0 victory over Ecuador in Group A play thanks to what may end up being the goal of the tournament. Los Cafeteros were far from convincing and were outshot by Gustavo Alfaro's side, but a moment of magic in the first half was enough to secure the three points, though they needed VAR in the end.

A perfectly executed set piece, started and finished by Boca Juniors midfielder Edwin Cardona, gave Reinaldo Reuda's team all they needed on the night. Here is the set piece, and watch how Cardona combines with his teammates with the ball ultimately falling to him in the heart of the box.

It was initially called offside, but VAR confirmed to ref Nestor Pitana that the goal was valid. It was one that had clearly been practiced countless times on the training ground. Executing it in a match is certainly more challenging, but Colombia made it look easy with the in-sync squad pulling off quite the golazo.

That victory puts Colombia in second place in Group A for the time being and also puts them well on their way to advancing to the quarterfinals. As for Ecuador, they should be fine assuming they can get three points on Sunday when they take on struggling Venezuela.

 

[Saj]

Great free kick from Messi. 1 0 versus Chile.

 

[Smbhayi]

Too many mispasses and fouls in this match..

 

[MenInG]

Lionel Messi scored a stunning free kick as Argentina drew with Chile after the Copa America paid a spectacular tribute to Diego Maradona.

Messi curled home from the edge of the area towards the end of the first half of the Group A opener.

But Eduardo Vargas headed in an equaliser after Arturo Vidal's penalty had been saved.

Just before kick-off, Argentina legend Maradona was remembered with a dazzling light and effects display.

It saw a holographic version of the 1986 World Cup winner perform kick ups before clips of his goals were projected on to the pitch.

Maradona, one of the greatest ever footballers, died in November last year at the age of 60.

After the game got under way, Argentina took the lead 12 minutes before half-time when Messi picked himself up after being fouled just outside the area to bend in a free-kick.

It was the Barcelona forward's 73rd international goal.

However, Chile levelled in the second half when Vidal was judged to have been fouled inside the box after a VAR review.

Vidal's spot-kick was pushed on to the crossbar but Vargas reacted quickly to head in.

The 47th edition of the Copa America - delayed a year because of the coronavirus outbreak - was originally scheduled to take place in Argentina and Colombia but was moved to Brazil after the original hosts were stripped of the tournament.

The South American Football Confederation (Conmebol) removed Colombia as co-hosts in May amid anti-government protests and Argentina were later replaced because of rising Covid-19 cases in the country.

BBC

 

[DHONI183]

CONMEBOL Copa América 2021

Just watched the highlights. That was a highly skilled free-kick by Messi. Great stuff!

 

[MenInG]

Neymar moved to within nine goals of Pele's all-time scoring record as Brazil eased past Peru to earn a second win at the Copa America.

The hosts led early on when Juventus' Alex Sandro fired in from six yards.

After half-time, Neymar notched his 68th goal for his country; Pele later saying he was "rooting" for the Paris St-Germain striker to break his record.

Substitutes Everton Ribeiro and Richarlison added late goals to send Brazil top of Group B with two wins.

Brazil manager Tite has now seen his side score seven goals without reply following their opening 3-0 win over Venezuela as they set about defending the Copa America title they won in 2019.

Neymar sits above former striker Ronaldo in the country's all-time scoring records.

BBC

 

[Saj]

Argentina secured a victory over Uruguay at the Copa America thanks to a winner from Guido Rodriguez.

Rodriguez, making his first start for his country since June 2019, headed in off a post early on following a cross from Lionel Messi.

Uruguay had a penalty appeal by striker Edinson Cavani turned down as they failed to register a shot on target in their opening match of the tournament.

Argentina's win moved them joint top of their group with Chile on four points.

"We deserved to win," said Argentina midfielder Rodrigo de Paul.

"We tried to be more compact, to make it more difficult to score against. Up front we have monstrous players who can get goals at any moment of the match."

Uruguay's next game is against Chile (21 June), while Argentina are next in action against Paraguay (22 June).

 

[Saj]

Yerry Mina's own goal in the second half saw Colombia crash to a 2-1 defeat by Peru in an absorbing Copa America clash on Sunday.

Peru took the lead in 17 minutes through Sergio Pena but Colombia equalised eight minutes into the second half when Miguel Borja scored from the penalty spot after he had been brought down by goalkeeper Pedro Gallese.

Peru got the winner 11 minutes later when Everton defender Mina was unlucky to see a cross ball bounce up on to his chest and past his own 'keeper.

The result lifts Peru into third place in the five-team Group B with three points from two games, one point behind Colombia who have played a game more. Leaders Brazil have a maximum six points.

Ronald Hernandez scored his first international goal in stoppage time to give Venezuela a dramatic 2-2 draw against Ecuador.

 

[OMB]

Argentina 1 - 0 Paraguay

Lionel Messi earned a record-equalling 147th cap for Argentina as they progressed to the Copa America quarter-finals with victory over Paraguay.

Papu Gomez scored the decisive goal early on, meeting a pass from Angel Di Maria before producing a fine finish.

Messi, 34, equalled Javier Mascherano's appearance record for the national team in the hard-fought win in Brasilia.

Argentina top Group A ahead of Chile, who drew 1-1 with Uruguay to also advance to the knockout stage.

The hastily-rearranged tournament in Brazil, which was moved from Argentina just two weeks before it was scheduled to start because of a a surge in Covid-19 cases in the country, is Messi's latest chance to win silverware with the senior team.

The six-time Ballon d'Or winner was typically influential, playing a part in the build-up to the game's only goal, while later firing wide from a free-kick.

With four matches left to play in Group A, Paraguay have three points, Uruguay one, and Bolivia none, meaning they all still stand a mathematical chance of advancing alongside Argentina and Chile.

Brazil have already qualified from Group B.

https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/57564133

 

[King_Kohli]

Scores:

 

[King_Kohli]

Brazil's Casemiro nets last-gasp goal to beat Colombia at Copa America

Brazil beat Colombia 2-1 in a tense Copa America match on Wednesday that featured three extraordinary goals.

Colombia opened the scoring in the 10th minute after Juan Cuadrado crossed from the right and found Luis Diaz all alone in the middle of Brazil's penalty box.

The striker shot a powerful volley to the right side of goalkeeper Weverton and scored possibly the best goal of the tournament.

Colombia then started defending against a Brazil team that barely stopped surrounding its penalty box. It appeared as if Colombia would be able to hold out, until Argentine referee Nestor Pitana's knee came into play. Pitana accidentally blocked a pass by Neymar about 10 meters in front of the Colombian area in the 78th minute.

Colombian defenders momentarily stopped, but Brazil substitute Lucas Paqueta just moved the ball to left-back Renan Lodi and his cross found Roberto Firmino, whose angled header beat Colombian goalkeeper David Ospina.

The Colombians initially refused to restart the match but Pitana, the referee of the 2018 World Cup final, confirmed Brazil's goal.

Brazil kept pressuring in the final minutes and found its reward in added time. Neymar took a corner and Casemiro netted the winner.

"They came at us once and then stopped,'' Casemiro said after the match. "It was our attack against their defense. Colombia is a strong team but, as the coach requires, we are very strong mentally.''

Brazil leads the group with nine points after three matches. Colombia has four from four matches. Peru also totals four points followed by Ecuador (3) and Venezuela (2). The top four teams advance to the playoff stage. Brazil will play its last group stage match on Sunday against Ecuador.

https://www.espn.in/football/report/_/gameId/560504

 

[King_Kohli]

Peru recover from two goals down to draw 2-2 with Ecuador

Peruvian-Italian striker Gianluca Lapadula inspired Peru to a second half revival as they fought back from a two-goal half time deficit to emerge with a 2-2 draw against Ecuador in the Copa America on Wednesday.

The result means both teams can still progress into the last eight of the 10-team South American tournament. With one game left for each, Ecuador have two points from three games and Peru have four.

Four of the top five teams in each group qualify for the quarterfinals.

Ecuador are one of only two teams never to have won the Copa America and although they started the match in the Brazilian city of Goiania without their suspended striker Enner Valencia they took the game to Peru and were 2-0 up at half-time.

Renato Tapia turned Pervis Estupinan's cross into his own net midway through the first half and then Ayrton Preciado grabbed a second on the stroke of half time when he got on the end of a Damian Diaz free kick from the right and stabbed the ball past a helpless Pedro Gallese.

Peru were also missing a talismanic striker but Lapadula, the Italian-Peruvian who appeared for Italy before choosing the country of his mother's birth, stepped up to help them forget the absence of Paolo Guerrero.

Lapadula turned in a fine second half performance and opened his international account four minutes after the break when he took a perfectly weighted pass from Christian Cueva and fired home.

Five minutes later Lapadula turned creator. He ran on to a superb pass from Sergio Pena and fed Andre Carrillo for the equaliser.

Both sides had chances to grab a winner but it was not to be and so Group B will go down to the wire in Sunday's final round of matches.

Peru play Venezuela and Ecuador face group leaders and host nation Brazil, who play Colombia later on Wednesday.

https://www.espn.in/football/report?gameId=560505

 

[MenInG]

Uruguay and Paraguay secured their spots in the Copa America knockout stage as both won 2-0 in Group A, knocking Bolivia out of the tournament.

Uruguay earned a first win in the tournament against Bolivia, who could have jumped ahead of them the table, but are now out of the tournament as a result of Paraguay's convincing victory against Chile.

Argentina lead Group A with seven points, followed by Paraguay with six. Chile have five, one more than Uruguay. Bolivia are still looking for their first point.

Uruguay's victory owed a debt of gratitude to Bolivian goalkeeper Carlos Lampe, otherwise one of the best players of the match, whose own goal put them ahead in the 40th minute.

Edinson Cavani doubled the lead from close range in the 79th minute at the Arena Pantanal in Cuiaba. It was the 34-year-old striker's first goal for Uruguay since November.

Paraguay beat Chile courtesy of a header by Braian Samudio in the 33rd minute, followed by a penalty from Miguel Almiron just before the hour mark at the Mané Garrincha stadium in Brasilia.

Uruguay and Paraguay will now go head to head on Monday in a game to decide which team faces defending champions and favourites Brazil in the quarter-finals.

If the two draw or Uruguay win, Chile will face the host. A Paraguayan victory means Uruguay will take that spot.

"We have to think about winning, not about choosing rivals," Uruguay midfielder Giorgian de Arrascaeta said.

"We created a lot of opportunities, we missed some that were very clear, but this gives us confidence. We never stopped believing in this squad."

Paraguay's Almiron is also optimistic about the future of his team in the tournament. "We have done great work here," he said. "Winning was the most important thing, but another important thing is how we are playing."

SKY

 

[MenInG]

 

[DHONI183]

CONMEBOL Copa América 2021

Wow, what an incredible goal this was by the Colombian player against Brazil! Sad that they lost because this goal alone deserved to stay on the winning side.

 

[Saj]

Miguel Almiron got a goal and an assist as Paraguay beat Chile 2-0 in the Copa America on Thursday and confirmed their place in the last eight.

The result ensures that with one round of group games still to play, Paraguay qualify from Group A along with Chile, Argentina and Uruguay.

Bolivia, who lost 2-0 to Uruguay earlier on Thursday, are eliminated.

The defeat at an empty stadium in Brasilia was coach Martin Lasarte’s first since taking over at Chile seven matches ago, and it was a sobering one given how easily they were brushed aside by their opponents.

Paraguay took the lead after 33 minutes when Braian Samudio, starting his first game in this Copa, got on the end of an Almiron corner kick to power a header past Claudio Bravo.

Chile started the second half more brightly but they soon found themselves two goals down.

With 58 minutes gone Gary Medel was adjudged to have wrestled Carlos Gonzalez to the ground inside the penalty box and Almiron stepped up to score from the spot.

Both sides had penalty claims turned down before the final whistle but Chile, Copa champions in 2015 and 2016, could have no complaints about the result having had only one shot on target the entire game.

Their cause was not helped by a string of top players including Bravo, Medel and Arturo Vidal, all having an off day.

The one sour note for Paraguay was seeing substitute Antonio Bareiro taken off the field on a stretcher in stoppage time with what looked like a knee injury.

Uruguay play Paraguay and Bolivia face Argentina in the final round of Group A games on Monday.

 

[MenInG]

Copa America hosts Brazil saw their 10-game winning run come to an end as they drew 1-1 with Ecuador in Goiania.

The point took Ecuador into the quarter-finals, with holders Brazil having previously booked their place in the knockout stages.

Eder Militao headed Brazil into the lead from Everton Soares' free-kick for his first international goal.

But Angel Mena rifled home from Enner Valencia's flick-on to equalise and send Ecuador through.

Mena was a first-half replacement for injured Brighton midfielder Moises Caicedo.

Ecuador had only needed to match Venezuela's result against Peru - who had already qualified - in Sunday's other game.

Andre Carrillo scored the only goal in that encounter as Peru won 1-0.

Both Brazil - who had won every game since November 2019 - and Ecuador must wait until Group A is over before discovering their quarter-final opponents. Only two of the 10 competing teams go out at the group stages.

On Monday in Group A (01:00 BST on Tuesday), Bolivia face Argentina and Uruguay play Paraguay.

BBC

 

[MenInG]

Lionel Messi scored twice as he became Argentina's most capped player in their 4-1 win Copa America win over Bolivia.

The Barcelona forward, 34, made his 148th international appearance, to take Javier Mascherano's record.

Messi set up Papu Gomez's sixth-minute opener, before scoring a penalty and adding a second just before half-time to extend his record goals tally to 75.

Elsewhere, Manchester United striker Edinson Cavani scored a 21st-minute penalty as Uruguay beat Paraguay 1-0.

Inter Milan's Lautaro Martinez also scored in Argentina's win and the team are now unbeaten in their last 17 games.

They take on Ecuador in the quarter-finals on Sunday, while Uruguay play Colombia on Saturday.

Hosts Brazil play Chile, while Paraguay face Peru.

BBC

Copa America quarter-finals

Peru v Paraguay (Friday 22:00 BST)

Brazil v Chile (Saturday 01:00 BST)

Uruguay v Colombia (Saturday 23:00 BST)

Argentina v Ecuador (Sunday 02:00 BST)

 

[Saj]

Brazil had striker Gabriel Jesus sent off in their Copa America quarter-final against Chile but held on for a 1-0 win to set up a semi-final against Peru.

Lucas Paqueta put Brazil ahead in the second half before Manchester City's Jesus was sent off within two minutes for a high challenge on Eugenio Mena.

Chile piled on pressure but the closest they came to an equaliser was Ben Brereton's header hitting the bar.

Peru advanced after beating Paraguay 4-3 on penalties after a 3-3 draw.

Brazil and Peru will now meet in a repeat of the 2019 final, which the former won 3-1.

"Jesus was just bad luck," said Brazil forward Neymar after the win against Chile. "He had his eye on the ball, not on the man, and unfortunately, he was sent off.

"Every day that goes by we have tests to make us stronger, to prove that we can play under all kinds of circumstances.

"Chile are a good team, they have great players and it is very difficult with a man less. Everyone deserves praise - the defence, the midfield, the forwards.

"We managed to withstand something that rarely happens to this team. It was a big test for us."

Peru came through an action-packed game against Paraguay, who took the lead through captain Gustavo Gomez early on.

However two goals from Gianluca Lapadula put Peru in front and, despite Paraguay having Gomez dismissed just before half-time, they equalised through Junior Alonso.

Yoshimar Yotun restored Peru's lead but, after they went down to 10 men when Andre Carillo was sent off in the 84th minute, Gabriel Avalos scored a last-minute leveller to send the tie to penalties.

Paraguay missed with three of their spot-kicks before Miguel Trauco scored the decisive penalty for Peru.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/57704869

 

[sweep_shot]

We may see an Argentina-Brazil final.

Brazil are favorites.

 

[King_Kohli]

Argentina vs. Ecuador score: Sensational Messi leads Albiceleste into Copa America semifinals

Lionel Messi put together one of his most memorable performances for Argentina in quite a while Saturday, recording two assists and getting a stunning goal of his own to beat Ecuador 3-0 in the Copa America quarterfinals. The win sees Argentina advance to the last four, where they'll face Colombia on Tuesday.

While the scoreline was one-sided, the game really wasn't for a majority of the 90 minutes. Argentina led for the last hour, but Ecuador had their chances, Enner Valencia especially. In the end, the wasteful underdogs just couldn't beat Emiliano Martinez despite making the Argentine defense look foolish at times.

Messi now has four goals and four assists in the cup and has his team on the brink of yet another appearance in the Copa final.

The winning goal came from midfielder Rodrigo de Paul in the 40th minute with a tidy finish in the box on an open goal, but just look at the assist Messi provided to set him up:

Then a mistake in defense from Ecuador gifted Argentina their second, with Messi swiftly finding the feet of Lautaro Martinez for the 2-0 lead with six minutes to go:

And he wasn't done there. Angel Di Maria went on the counter and won a free kick that also resulted in a red card for Ecuador defender Piero Hincapie, and Messi made no mistake, going goalkeeper side for an unbelievable finish:

With the win, Argentina now get a rematch against Los Cafeteros after recently blowing a 2-0 lead against them in World Cup qualifying, settling for a 2-2 draw. Colombia are without star James Rodriguez who missed the tournament, with Reinaldo Rueda's team defeating Uruguay in penalty kicks earlier on Saturday.

Brazil face Peru in the first semifinal on Monday.

Argentina 3, Ecuador 0 (FT)

https://www.cbssports.com/soccer/news/argentina-vs-ecuador-score-sensational-messi-leads-albiceleste-into-copa-america-semifinals/live/

 

[DHONI183]

CONMEBOL Copa América 2021

Messi seems in with a serious chance here, given that Argentina's nemesis, Chile, are already out of the tournament.

Indeed, an Argentina-Brazil final seems all set from hereon, and it promises to be a cracker. Will Messi finally get to touch silverware for Argentina? Let's see....

 

[Saj]

The Brazil v Argentina final is still on.

What a match it could be.

 

[sweep_shot]

The Brazil v Argentina final is still on.

What a match it could be.

Yeah. Looking forward to it.

I hope Argentina will win. Messi deserves a title.

 

[DHONI183]

CONMEBOL Copa América 2021

Brazil have beaten Peru and are through to the final. The highlights suggest that Brazil were a bit scrappy, and Peru could´ve stretched the match a little further had they been able to use one of the opportunities in the second half.

Anyway, over to Messi and his fellows now to make it an Argentina-Brazil final.

 

[MenInG]

Lucas Paqueta sent defending champions Brazil into the Copa America final with a first-half winner against Peru at the Nilton Santos Stadium.

Neymar beat three defenders on the left before crossing for Paqueta to guide home the semi-final's only goal.

Brazil, who have won the Copa America every time they hosted the tournament, face either Argentina or Colombia in Saturday's final at the Maracana.

"I want Argentina, I am cheering them on," Neymar said.

"I have friends there and in the final Brazil will win."

Paris St-Germain forward Neymar was a bright spark for Brazil as they again edged Peru, the side their beat in the 2019 final to lift the trophy for the ninth time.

Peru goalkeeper Pedro Gallese made a fine double save from point-blank range to deny Neymar and Richarlison early on.

Neymar's trickery and ability to find Paqueta with a finely placed pass when surrounded by Peruvian defenders on the left proved decisive in the 34th minute.

Peru pressed for a second-half equaliser, with Gianluca Lapadula testing Ederson with a fierce effort, but they failed to upstage the hosts.

BBC

 

[street cricketer]

We have an Argentina vs Brazil final!

 

[Gharib Aadmi]

This is Messi's last chance to win the Copa and most likely to get an international trophy. Cant believe Argentina have lost 3 Copa Finals with Messi.

 

[Gharib Aadmi]

Should be a great weekend for Football fans. Argentina vs Brazil and most likely England vs Italy. Thankfully the matches are on separate days.

 

[MenInG]

Emiliano Martinez saved three penalties as Argentina beat Colombia in a semi-final shootout to advance to Saturday's Copa America final against Brazil.

The Aston Villa keeper denied Davinson Sanchez, Yerry Mina and Edwin Cardona from the spot after the game ended 1-1.

Lionel Messi set up Lautaro Martinez to put Argentina ahead before Luis Diaz levelled to send the game to penalties.

The final will be broadcast live on the BBC, with kick-off at 01:00 BST on Sunday, 11 July.

Messi, Lautaro Martinez and Leandro Paredes all scored their penalties in the shootout, but Emiliano Martinez was the hero as he produced a hat-trick of diving saves after being rarely troubled during the game.

The 28-year-old, who moved to English football with Arsenal and had loan spells at Rotherham, Oxford, Reading, Sheffield Wednesday and Wolves, also earned a talking to from the referee for his ceaseless chat aimed at Colombia's players as they lined up to take their kicks.

"They took us to penalties and that's a question of luck, today it was my turn for glory," he said. "I'm speechless."

Six-time Ballon d'Or winner Messi, who is looking to win his first senior trophy with Argentina, praised the Villa keeper for ensuring they "fulfilled our objective" of reaching the final.

"It was difficult at times," Messi said. "But we have 'Emi' and he's phenomenal. We trusted him."

Argentina, who won the last of their 14 Copa America titles in 1993, face defending champions Brazil at the Maracana on Saturday.

Brazil, who have won the Copa America nine times - and on all five of the previous occasions they have hosted the tournament - beat Peru 1-0 in the other semi-final on Tuesday.

 

[DHONI183]

CONMEBOL Copa América 2021

We´ve an Argentina-Brazil final in Copa America after 14 years! Too bad though that the Final will be played at 2 AM on Sunday, a time which is neither here nor there for me, as I can´t stay awake till so late and neither get a quick nap to wake up again before the match. So I´m sadly at set to miss the Final, but I´m sure that you people will have immense fun watching it. It truly promises to be a cracker, doesn´t it?

The highlights suggest that it must´ve been quite a good Semi-Final between Argentina and Colombia. Both the teams looked seriously motivated to win, and Colombia did try hard. A penalty shoot-out can go anyone´s way, of course.

 

[SangasCoverDrive]

I don't know why there is a Copa America every year? It just dilutes the prestige of the tournament.

 

[shaz619]

Copa America is full of goat herders and part timers, overall quality is horrible, its essentially a tri-series between Columbia, Argentina and Brazil

 

[Saj]

Messi v Neymar.

No love lost between these 2 huge rivals.

Should be a spicy and hard-fought encounter.

 

[SpiritOf1903]

I don't know why there is a Copa America every year? It just dilutes the prestige of the tournament.

Was every three I think then became bi-annual but fee years ago played consecutive years like Ashes when Chile took it twice. That was peak Sanchez

 

[Firebat]

Messi has been an absolute machine this tournament (which resembles UFC more than football), he is clearly determined to win and it means a lot to him. The passion and feistiness he showed, especially taunting Mina in the shootout against Columbia, is something he rarely displays for club.

He wants that international trophy badly.

 

[MenInG]

Lionel Messi has the chance to win his first major tournament with Argentina when they meet Brazil in the final of Copa America in Rio on Saturday.

Messi, 34, has won 10 La Liga titles and four Champions Leagues during a trophy-laden career at Barcelona.

But the six-time Ballon d'Or winner's only success with the senior Argentina team is at the 2008 Olympics in China.

"We'll try to stop him achieving this objective," said Brazil defender Marquinhos.

The 2021 Copa America is Messi's 10th major tournament with Argentina - comprised of four World Cups and six editions of the competition to determine the champions of South America.

They have not won a top-level tournament since the 1993 Copa America, and defending champions Brazil stand in their way this time.

Messi, who is out of contract at Barcelona, has scored four times already in the tournament.

Messi at the World Cup

Country Played Won Lost Minutes Goals
2006 3 2 0 121 1
2010 5 4 1 450 0
2014 7 5 1 693 4
2018 4 1 2 360 1
TOTALS 19 12 4 1624 6

Brazil's Neymar, a former team-mate of Messi's at Barca, is also looking to seal a first major success with his country in the first Argentina-Brazil Copa America final since 2007.

"We're going to play a final against our eternal rivals, the lifelong ones, the two most powerful national teams in South America and we hope it will be a great match," said Argentina boss Lionel Scaloni.

Messi at Copa America

Country Played Won Lost Minutes Goals
2007 6 5 1 456 2
2011 4 1 0 390 0
2015 6 3 0 570 1
2016 5 4 0 374 5
2019 6 3 2 487 1
2021 6 4 0 540 4
TOTALS 33 20 3 2817 13

This year's Copa America, delayed a year by the coronavirus pandemic, was scheduled to be the first in its 105-year history to be held in two nations - Colombia and Argentina.

However, the South American Football Confederation (Conmebol) decided in May to move games away from Colombia after a wave of civil unrest there.

It was then announced Argentina would no longer host the four-week tournament after the country saw Covid-19 cases grow quickly.

A last-minute decision to switch it to Brazil, which staged the 2019 edition, amid a surge in coronavirus cases was criticised by Brazil's players.

All matches have been played without fans inside grounds.

The final, originally scheduled to be held in the Colombian city of Barranquilla, will also take place without fans at the iconic Maracana stadium - scene of Argentina's 1-0 defeat by Germany in the 2014 World Cup final.

Ten countries were split into two groups of five, with the top four from each group advancing to the quarter-finals.

Hosts Brazil - third in Fifa's world rankings - got the tournament under way with a 3-0 win against Venezuela in Brasilia.

Both Argentina and Brazil finished top of their respective groups. They were joined in the last eight by Uruguay, Paraguay, Chile, Peru, Colombia and Ecuador.

Two of the four quarter-finals were decided on penalties - Uruguay, the most successful side in the competition's history, lost to Colombia, while 2019 runners-up Peru beat Paraguay.

Chile, the 2016 winners, included Blackburn Rovers forward Ben Brereton - he scored the winner in the 1-0 group victory over Bolivia to help his side reach the quarter-finals, where they lost 1-0 to Brazil.

In the semi-finals, Argentina needed penalties to get past Colombia, while Brazil beat Peru 1-0.

Will Argentina end 28-year wait?
Argentina, eighth in Fifa's world rankings, have lost four Copa America finals since they last won the competition in 1993.

However, they have the chance to draw level with Uruguay on 15 wins.

Paris St-Germain winger Angel di Maria, a bright spark when he came on in the semi-final against Colombia, has mostly started on the bench along with new Barcelona signing Sergio Aguero.

Despite winning the 2019 edition, Brazil (with nine) are third in terms of Copa America triumphs.

They left the likes of Liverpool forward Roberto Firmino and Real Madrid's Vinicius Junior on the bench for their semi-final, while Manchester United's Fred has been preferred to Liverpool's Fabinho in midfield.

"Brazil versus Argentina is much more than a simple game of football," added Marquinhos. "These jerseys make the world stand still to watch their games."

BBC

 

[MenInG]

Colombia forward Luis Diaz scored a stunning 25-yard injury-time winner to help his country beat Peru 3-2 in their Copa America third-place play-off.

Yoshimar Yotun had given Peru the lead in the first half only for Juan Cuadrado to equalise with a free-kick shortly after the break.

Diaz then put Colombia in front before a Gianluca Lapadula's 82nd-minute header levelled the match again.

A penalty shootout looked on the cards but Diaz scored in the 94th minute.

"We're happy - it was important to finish by winning," said Cuadrado. "I'm happy with how we reacted [to going behind] and how we went after the result."

Argentina, who beat Colombia on penalties in their semi-final, will play hosts Brazil, who beat Peru 1-0, in the final at 01:00 BST on Sunday

BBC

 

[DHONI183]

CONMEBOL Copa América 2021

Both the teams seem evenly poised. From what I´ve known about both the teams the recent years, Argentina rely heavily on their ability to defend well, as they rarely concede too many goals. I´m not too aware of the look of their current set-up, but I´ve known them as a team which banks on some of their calm, cool, and experienced heads amongst their defenders and mid-fielders. Brazil, on the other hand, are exactly the opposite of it. Their whole game is about attacking relentlessly, and their defence hasn´t been their strength the recent while. Therefore, I believe that if Argentina win, they´ll win by 1-0, and if Brazil end up winning it, it´ll be a 2-1 affair.

Good luck to both the teams. All eyes on Messi now!

 

[OMB]

This is billed to be a Neymar vs Messi tussle.
From what I read they seem to be evenly matched so maybe this one goes into penalty shootouts

 

[OMB]

Copa America 2021: Argentina not out for revenge in final, says Scaloni

Brazil won 2-0 in 2019 on its way to its ninth Copa title in a game the Argentines remember for controversial refereeing decisions that went against them.


Two years after it lost to Brazil in the semi-final of the Copa America, Argentina is preparing to meet its arch-rivals again in 2021's final, but coach Lionel Scaloni is playing down talk of revenge.

Brazil won 2-0 in 2019 on its way to its ninth Copa title in a game the Argentines remember for controversial refereeing decisions that went against them.

Lionel Messi accused organisers CONMEBOL of favouring Brazil after the tournament and was banned and fined for his outburst.

Yet Scaloni, who has led Argentina on a 19-game unbeaten run ever since, said he and his players were not thinking back but ahead, to Saturday’s final at the Maracana stadium in Rio de Janeiro.

"I don’t believe in revenge, I believe in the work we’ve done, and the project we have here,” Scaloni said.

"For sure, tomorrow it will come to a conclusion, this is a final. We are playing our eternal rival and I hope it is a good game and that people can enjoy it. The world will no doubt stop to watch but there is no revenge.”

Much of the pre-match talk has revolved around Argentina’s trophy drought. It last won the Copa America in 1993 and since then, Brazil has won it five times.

The drought is particularly galling to Messi, who has won everything with Barcelona and nothing with Argentina.

Scaloni, though, said the lack of an international medal was no stain on Messi's otherwise breath-taking resume.

"Win or lose he is still the greatest footballer of all time, he doesn't need to win a title to prove it," Scaloni said.

"Obviously we want to win for ourselves, for our people and for all of us who have been together so many days concentrating on not breaking the bubble and creating contagions.

"It’s a final and everybody knows what this means. You don’t have to keep repeating this to players. On the other hand, as we have seen over the last year and a half, football at the end of the day is sometimes secondary. It is 90 minutes that are important but they know that after that the life goes on."

https://sportstar.thehindu.com/football/copa-america-2021-final-argentina-brazil-not-out-for-revenge-messi-scaloni-football/article35245756.ece

 

[DHONI183]

CONMEBOL Copa América 2021

We can't forget that the mental aspect of things plays a huge role in any sports. Argentina have lost three big finals the recent while, and this could come as kind of a mental block for them. Sometimes, such a history, such bitter moments from recent experiences, can play a role in a team's inability to seize the big moments, and finals are after all all about seizing the big moments. This is precisely my fear for Argentina, and it's this background which can end up deciding big matches. You don't even know when such moments from the past, playing in your mind, could end up in causing a repeat of the same mistake. It could be missed chance or a failure in defence - literally anything. Argentina will have to fight themselves more than the opposition, and this often works against you in sports. It's not easy to overlook such a recent history so easily, especially when you're caught up playing on the same stage once more.

 

[dildilpak]

Finally, Messi & Argentina win! Player of the tournament too, but still in shock he missed an easiest of opportunity to score the 2nd goal in the 80+ minute. Anyways, hopefully the GOAT debate is settled once & for all.

 

[MenInG]

Lionel Messi ended his wait for a first major international title as Argentina beat Brazil in the Copa America final in Rio's Maracana stadium.

Messi, 34, dropped to the ground in joy at the full-time whistle and was swiftly mobbed by his team-mates, before being hurled in the air in celebration, as he finally claimed top-level honours with his country in his 10th major tournament.

He also helped end Argentina's 28-year spell since they last won the competition and was named player of the tournament after his four goals in the competition.

Angel di Maria proved the matchwinner with his superb lob, after taking down Rodrigo de Paul's lofted pass.

Messi had a chance to sign off the win but slipped with the goal at his mercy, in what would have been the perfect finale for the Argentine captain.

Defending champions Brazil were disappointing, with their only chances of note coming when Richarlison and Gabriel Barbosa forced saves from Emi Martinez.

In a contrast of emotions, Messi's opposite number 10 and former Barcelona team-mate Neymar sank to his knees in tears at the final whistle, as his own personal pursuit of international success continues, having missed Brazil's 2019 Copa win through injury.

The pair, who played together at the Nou Camp between 2013 and 2017 before the Brazilian's move to Paris St-Germain, embraced in a long-lasting hug while they waited for the trophy ceremony.

The game was watched by a small crowd of 7,000 invited guests, because of Covid-19 restrictions, but was the first of the tournament to have spectators in attendance.

The sparse home supporters made their voices heard, though, particularly every time Messi touched the ball, booing and jeering the forward.

The tournament, delayed by a year because of the coronavirus pandemic and moved from initial co-hosts Colombia and Argentina, was switched to 2019 hosts Brazil in a last-minute decision which received criticism in light of a surge in coronavirus cases in the country.

Messi finally shines on international stage
It was clear from the ecstatic Argentina celebrations at full-time, with Messi the focal point, that this squad's drive to triumph against their old rival was as much for their legendary forward as it was the nation.

It has been 15 years since Messi first represented Argentina at a major tournament and after four World Cups and six Copa America appearances, taking in 53 matches, he finally has the major international title he - and his country - has craved.

Despite being one of the most decorated and brilliant players of the modern era - and arguably all time - with 10 La Liga titles, four Champions Leagues and six Ballons d'Or, questions over his lack of impact on the international stage have hung over his legacy.

Messi at the World Cup

Country Played Won Lost Minutes Goals Stage
2006 3 2 0 121 1 Quarter-final
2010 5 4 1 450 0 Quarter-final
2014 7 5 1 693 4 Runners-up
2018 4 1 2 360 1 Last 16
TOTALS 19 12 4 1624 6

And while many will say his greatness has been cemented, regardless of what he achieves with Argentina, this lengthy wait for a maiden senior trophy with his country will go a long way to silencing any doubters.

Repeated failures with Argentina have been painful for the forward, who went as far as announcing his retirement - before later reversing the decision - after losing a second consecutive Copa America final in 2016, his third defeat in the final of the competition and coming just two years after suffering a loss in the 2014 World Cup final.

He was not explosive against Brazil, with few opportunities to get on the ball after Argentina showed defensive resolve once taking the lead in a niggly game disrupted by 41 fouls, but he carried the ball well, particularly in the latter stages, to help relieve pressure.

Country Played Won Lost Minutes Goals Stage

2007 6 5 1 456 2 Runners-up
2011 4 1 0 390 0 Quarter-final
2015 6 3 0 570 1 Runners-up
2016 5 4 0 374 5 Runners-up
2019 6 3 2 487 1 Semi-final
2021 7 5 0 630 4 Winners
TOTALS 34 21 3 2,907 13

Questions about his immediate future will now continue to be asked, with Messi now a free agent after his Barcelona contract ended two weeks ago - although Barca have stepped up their attempts to keep hold of their star man with negotiations continuing.

There also remains the prospect of Messi going for what would likely be his last chance of winning the World Cup - something Argentina have not done since 1986 - should he lead his country out in Qatar at the age of 35 in December 2022.

 

[IAJ]

Finally, Messi & Argentina win! Player of the tournament too, but still in shock he missed an easiest of opportunity to score the 2nd goal in the 80+ minute. Anyways, hopefully the GOAT debate is settled once & for all.

Yeah should have scored right away, I knew where he was coming from when he tried to be a bit cheeky but messed it up completely. He knew they were ahead and only a couple of minutes left so wanted to end it up with style.

Anyways he is one of the best in history, if not the best. Well done, and Angel Di Maria deserved the trophy also. He has been around a long time and I still think Argentina would have won the WC in 2014 if De Maria didn’t get injured, he was truly outstading upto the injury.

 

[Giannis]

Happy for Messi. Argentina's first Copa America in 28 years.

 

[DHONI183]

Congratulations to Argentina, Messi, and all his fans around the world! Very happy for him, although the highlights suggest that he missed a massive opportunity to add the icing on the cake to add a personal contribution too to the win. An easy goal missed. Regardless of that, well deserved by him.

..... Therefore, I believe that if Argentina win, they´ll win by 1-0, and if Brazil end up winning it, it´ll be a 2-1 affair.

You heard it here first, fellows! They won it 1-0.

 

[OldWarHorse]

Paredes, Lo Celso, De Paul is a fine midfield that Argentina have found, what an upgrade over Mascherano and Biglia from 2018. Add Romero at CB and Martinez in goal, things look so much better. Should be among the contenders at Qatar next year.

 

[OMB]

The moment when Messi finally became a CopaAmerica Champion.

That elusive search for an International medal for Messi finally concluded yesterday and Messi finally can breathe a sigh of relief. Remember that he was so upset that he had almost left the national team after their loss in CopaAmerica final of 2016.

Messi can now lay claim to be truly an ATG !

<div style="width: 100%; height: 0px; position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.250%;"><iframe src="https://streamable.com/e/pi8pkr" frameborder="0" width="100%" height="100%" allowfullscreen style="width: 100%; height: 100%; position: absolute;"></iframe></div>

 

[sweep_shot]

As someone who supports Argentina, that was a great night for me.

First major title for Argentina since 1993.

 

[The_KING]

I am a big fan of South American football. Some entitled Europeans be like these are part timers and there are only three teams of note, but I love South American football and they have produced some of the best and most exciting players ever.

Even though Brazil has always been my favourite international team, I am happy that Argentina won the final. Messi going through his entire career without winning any international trophy would have been a disaster. .

 

[Saj]

Finally got a chance to watch the final.

That was one brutal game of football. I thought the best performance was by the referee who somehow managed to keep control of a match that looked like it was going to boil over.

Great to see Messi finally lift a trophy, although neither side were at their best.