SPOTTED: Lionel Messi’s raw emotions during Argentina’s Copa America celebration

SPOTTED: Lionel Messi's raw emotions during Argentina's Copa America celebration

Less than an hour after Lionel Messi limped off with an injury, his tears and pain turned into jubilation as Argentina defended the Copa America title.

Lionel Messi was left inconsolable as he broke down in tears after being forced off injured during the second half of the Copa America 2024 final between reigning world champions Argentina and Colombia at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami. However, in less than an hour’s time, all his tears and pain turned into jubilation as Argentina successfully defended the title and became the most successful team in the history of Copa America with a 1-0 win in extra-time.

Lionel Messi during his celebration after Argentina lift Copa America

The match, which was delayed by more than an hour after thousands of ticketless fans tried to enter the venue, was a cagey affair over 90 minutes before the deadlock was broken in the extra-time. Substitute Lautaro Martinez, the tournament’s leading goal scorer, collected a precise through ball from Giovani Lo Celso before lifting his effort over advancing Colombia goalkeeper Camilo Vargas in the 112nd minute to spark wild celebrations among Argentina fans.