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Argentina vs. Colombia: Stars to Watch in the Copa América Final
The Copa América final is set for this Sunday, July 14, in Miami, United States, where Argentina, led by Lionel Scaloni, will face Colombia, led by Néstor Lorenzo, at the Hard Rock Stadium. Argentina is aiming to defend its title and win a fourth consecutive international trophy, while Colombia seeks its second Copa América title. The event promises high drama and excitement, especially with Shakira performing before the match.
Argentina’s journey to the final included a penalty shootout victory over Ecuador in the quarterfinals and a win against Canada in the group stage. Meanwhile, Colombia’s path saw them defeating Paraguay, Costa Rica, and a crucial win against Uruguay in the semifinals.
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The match will have extra time if tied after 90 minutes, and the winner will earn a $20 million prize from Conmebol, plus a chance to play in the next Finalissima against the Euro Cup champion.
Key Players from Argentina
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Lionel Messi:
Messi, often regarded as the greatest soccer player of all time, has had a rollercoaster tournament. After suffering a leg injury against Chile in the group stage, he sat out the next match against Peru. Though he struggled in the quarterfinals against Ecuador, Messi made a spectacular comeback in the semifinals against Canada, scoring a crucial goal that secured Argentina’s spot in the final. Messi, now playing for Inter Miami, will be a central figure in Argentina’s quest for victory.
Emiliano “Dibu” Martínez
Known as one of the best penalty goalkeeper in the world, Dibu Martínez has been crucial for Argentina. His heroics in the recent World Cup, where he helped Argentina win the title, have carried over into this tournament. In the quarterfinals against Ecuador, he saved two penalty kicks, ensuring Argentina’s progression to the semifinals. As the goalkeeper for Aston Villa, Martínez has also led his club to the Champions League after a long hiatus.
Ángel Di María
Di María is set to play his last match for the Argentinian national team. Although he hasn’t scored any goals in this tournament, his skills and assists have been vital. Di María is currently without a club contract but has been linked with a return to Benfica, a move to Rosario Central, or even joining Messi at Inter Miami. As of now, we will have to enjoy Ángel playing for Argentina one last time.
Key Players from Colombia
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James Rodríguez
The Colombian captain has been instrumental in his team’s journey to the final. He has contributed to seven out of the 12 goals Colombia scored in the tournament and leads the assists chart with six, surpassing the previous record held by Messi. Despite limited playing time at Sao Paulo, James has shown his class in the Copa América, helping Colombia dream of a title after 23 years.
Davinson Sánchez
Sánchez has been a rock in Colombia’s defense, displaying the form that once made him a standout player in Europe. After a challenging period at Tottenham, he has regained his best form at Galatasaray. His defensive talent has been key to Colombia conceding only two goals in five games. Sánchez’s ability to stop top players like Vinicius Junior and Darwin Núñez has been crucial for Colombia’s success.
Luis Díaz
Díaz is Colombia’s game-changer. He scored a goal against Costa Rica in the group stage and was pivotal in the semifinals against Uruguay, especially after Colombia went down to ten men. His ability to drive the team forward and disrupt the opposition’s defense has been invaluable. Currently playing for Liverpool, where he is their most expensive and influential player, Díaz’s performance will be vital for Colombia’s chances in the final.
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