Argentina's emphatic victory over Colombia in the 2024 Copa América final has etched their name into history as they join Spain (2008-2012) as the only two national teams to win three consecutive major international tournaments.
Argentina's remarkable triumph in the 2024 Copa América has solidified their status as one of the most dominant forces in international soccer. Their hard-fought 1-0 extra-time victory over Colombia not only secured their third consecutive major title but also showcased the depth and resilience of Lionel Scaloni's squad.
The triumph was particularly impressive considering the absence of their talismanic captain, Lionel Messi, who departed the match in the second half due to a right ankle injury. Despite the loss of their iconic leader, Argentina rallied behind Lautaro Martinez's decisive goal in extra time, proving that they are more than just a one-man team.
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Former United States international Maurice Edu praised Argentina's collective effort, highlighting the contributions of goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez and other players who stepped up in Messi's absence. "This is where you give credit to the other players that don't wear a No. 10 shirt," Edu said. "They had to step up and make plays."
While Messi's future with the national team remains uncertain, the emergence of young talents like Alejandro Garnacho and Nicolas Gonzalez provides hope for Argentina's continued success. However, the inevitable departure of Angel Di Maria and the eventual retirement of Messi within the next few years will create significant voids to fill.
Despite concerns about Argentina's depth, Melissa Ortiz believes that the experience gained by younger players in the Copa América final will prove invaluable in their development. "I think that can also build confidence of these players," Ortiz said. "This is what it looks like when the ‘G.O.A.T.' is at some point soon going to retire, and also what the team looks like without Di María."
Edu raised the possibility of Messi continuing with Argentina in a diminished role in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. "I'm curious, we've seen him now start picking up more injuries," Edu said. "If those injuries do start to like limit how many games he could play in a season potentially, or if he can play 90 minutes back-to-back-to-back, would you want to see him at the World Cup in a different role?"
Both Edu and Wes Morgan believe that the emotional circumstances of the Copa América final, with Messi's departure and Argentina's subsequent victory, could incentivize the Inter Miami superstar to continue his international career. "With the World Cup in two years, dangling that little carrot — ‘You can still have that positive influence on the team' — just his presence in and around the the team I'm sure inspires them to go on and do it again," Morgan said.
If Argentina can triumph in the 2026 World Cup, they will become the first team to win four consecutive major international tournaments, a feat that would further cement their legacy as one of the greatest national teams of all time.
