In a thrilling second half, Brazil poured up the pressure, but despite fielding five strikers, they were unable to equalize against an Argentine defense anchored by the excellent De Paul.
“After the game, Di Maria stated, “I can’t cry yet.” “We fought and dreamed of attaining this. Many people chastised us and told us we shouldn’t return [to the national team]. “
The contest itself was a letdown, with Argentina coming out on top in a tense first half that saw 21 fouls.
“First and foremost, we must praise our opponents, particularly in the first half, when they neutralized us,” Thiago Silva, a Brazilian defender, remarked.
“There was no contest in the second half; just one team attempted to play football, while the other simply spent time, as we expected. It’s not an excuse; we didn’t do what we needed to in the first half, especially. “
At the final whistle, the Argentine players gathered their captain.
Emiliano Martinez, the goalkeeper, termed it a Maracanazo, a spectacular victory at the legendary Rio stadium.
He said, “I’m speechless.” “I knew my dream would come true, and what better place to do it than the Maracanazo, where the best in the world is crowned and his goal is realized.”
With four goals, Messi tied for the tournament’s highest goal scorer and was named joint best player alongside Neymar. However, Messi was silent throughout Saturday’s encounter, and he squandered a fantastic opportunity to end the game with two minutes left.
“Argentina Champions, Lionel Messi Champion!” Argentina TV said as the final whistle blew.
“This is a huge title,” Lionel Scaloni, the Argentine coach, remarked. “I’m hoping that the Argentines will find it enjoyable. The supporters adore the team, and I believe they empathize with this team that never lets its guard down. “
Argentina won the Copa America for the 15th time, tying Uruguay for the most wins in the tournament’s history.
Argentina’s triumph extended Lionel Scaloni’s unbeaten streak to 20 games, and it was Brazil’s first competitive setback since losing to Belgium in the 2018 World Cup quarterfinals.
Reference:https://www.espn.in/football/report/_/gameId/603182
