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MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. — As sunsets go, the one being enjoyed by the “Messi Generation” of Argentina players is almost impossible to top. It’s full of gorgeous hues and bright colors, the reflected joy of three major trophies in three years, the most recent of which was Sunday’s 1-0 extra-time triumph over Colombia in the 2024 Copa América.
It’s easy to forget that the current run was borne of continued disappointment, with multiple final defeats in both the Copa América and World Cup. But then there was the 2021 Copa América, Argentina’s first major trophy in 28 years, accompanied by the massive exhale that came with the realization that Lionel Messi wouldn’t end his senior international career trophyless. The momentum created helped push La Albiceleste to the 2022 World Cup, ensuring the group’s place in the pantheon of the unforgettable, and saw Messi match another Argentine icon, Diego Maradona. Now that the trio has been hit, matching Spain’s run of three major trophies from 2008 to 2012, it makes this group legends.
“This team continuously surprises everyone,” Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni said, with the help of a translator. “It overcomes every difficulty during the match with a very hard opponent, a difficult opponent. And without a good first half. I think that we improved on the second half and we deserved to win. And in the extra time, there’s always a plus that they provide, and it is very gratifying to see the reward.”
Sunday’s match etched the likes of Messi, Ángel Di María and Nicolás Otamendi even deeper into Argentine lore, despite the team not playing all that well throughout. Still, the 36-year-old Di Maria, who ran fearlessly at opponents, was key in what he said will be his last competitive game for La Albiceleste.
“Angel has played amazing matches with us, but today’s game was one of…
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