The 2021 Copa América was a tournament filled with twists and turns, from the initial postponement due to the COVID-19 pandemic to the unexpected change of hosts. It was not meant to be held in Brazil, nor was it intended to be played in 2021. The pandemic forced organizers to shift the tournament to the following year, and unfortunately, the guest participants, Australia and Qatar, were forced to withdraw.
The tournament’s journey to Brazil was even more dramatic. Originally awarded to Colombia and Argentina, the tournament faced a major setback when Colombia had to drop out due to widespread protests against the government. Argentina, left without a co-host, also withdrew, leaving Brazil to step in and host the tournament in a whirlwind of events.
A Star’s Quest for Glory
Before the Copa América began, the eyes of the football world were focused on one man: Lionel Messi. He was hoping to finally achieve international success after a string of disappointments with Argentina. Messi, already a decorated player with numerous club accolades, had yet to claim a major international trophy.
The pressure was mounting. At 33, time was running out for Messi to add an international trophy to his collection. He had seen his longtime rival, Cristiano Ronaldo, win his first major international title with Portugal at Euro 2016. The 2021 Copa América was Messi’s chance to make history and etch his name into the annals of international football.
Group Stages: A Test of Strength
Argentina began their campaign in Group A, facing off against Bolivia, Chile, Paraguay, and Uruguay. The Albiceleste emerged from the group stage as leaders, but not without a few bumps along the way. They were held to a draw by Chile and secured narrow wins over Uruguay and Paraguay before finally unleashing their attacking prowess in a 4-1 victory over Bolivia. Messi led the way with three goals during the group stage.
Brazil, the host nation, also topped Group B with 10 points. They faced tough competition from Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Venezuela. After comfortably defeating Venezuela and Peru, Brazil needed a late goal to edge out Colombia and finished the group stage with a draw against Ecuador.
Knockout Rounds: A Journey of Drama
The knockout stage began with the quarter-finals. Peru, the runner-up from the previous Copa América, faced Paraguay in Goiania. The match was a rollercoaster ride of emotions, with Paraguay taking an early lead before Peru rallied back and then found themselves forced to play with 10 men after a red card. They managed to score in the 90th minute to send the match into extra time and then emerged victorious after a penalty shootout.
Brazil faced off against Chile in Rio de Janeiro. The match was a tight affair, with Brazil ultimately securing a 1-0 win. In the other quarter-finals, Colombia narrowly defeated Uruguay in a penalty shootout after a 0-0 draw.
Argentina, fueled by Messi’s brilliance, continued their winning ways against Ecuador in the quarter-finals. Messi, with two assists and a goal, orchestrated a dominant 3-0 victory.
Semifinal Showdowns
The semi-finals were intense encounters. Brazil faced off against Peru in Rio. Peru’s goalkeeper, Pedro Gallese, put on a spectacular performance, saving numerous attempts from Brazil. Despite Peru’s valiant effort, Brazil emerged victorious thanks to a goal from Lucas Paquetá.
Argentina’s semi-final match against Colombia in Brasilia was a nail-biter. Argentina took an early lead but Colombia equalized in the second half. The match went to penalties, and Argentina’s goalkeeper, Emiliano Martínez, became a hero. He saved three Colombian penalties to send Argentina to the final.
A Moment of History
The final, played on July 10th, was a showdown between two of football’s giants: Argentina and Brazil. It was a tense match with very few scoring opportunities. In the 22nd minute, Ángel Di María scored the only goal of the game, a moment that would forever be etched in Argentina’s history.
Argentina, spurred on by Messi’s drive and leadership, held on to secure a 1-0 victory. It was their first Copa América title in 28 years. For Messi, it was the culmination of a lifetime of hard work and dedication. He had finally achieved international glory.
