2021 Copa América Final: Argentina Ends 28-Year Drought to Claim Title
On July 10, 2021, the football world turned its attention to the Estádio do Maracanã in Rio de Janeiro for one of the most anticipated clashes in South American sports. The 2021 Copa América final pitted two historic rivals against each other: Argentina and the tournament hosts and defending champions, Brazil.
The match served as a pivotal moment in sporting history, as Argentina sought to end a trophy drought that had lasted nearly three decades. The result was a hard-fought 1–0 victory for Argentina, securing their fifteenth Copa América title and marking their first major championship since 1993.
For captain Lionel Messi, the victory was deeply personal. After sixteen years of senior international play, the win provided him with his first senior international trophy, capping off a tournament where he proved his enduring influence on the pitch.
Key Facts
- Winner: Argentina (1–0)
- Date: July 10, 2021
- Venue: Estádio do Maracanã, Rio de Janeiro
- Deciding Goal: Scored by Ángel Di María in the 22nd minute
- Significance: Argentina's first title since 1993, equaling Uruguay's record of 15 titles
- Man of the Match: Ángel Di María
The Road to the Maracanã
Tournament Disruptions and Venue Changes
The path to the final was fraught with logistical challenges. Originally scheduled for 2020 in Argentina and Colombia, the tournament was postponed by a year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Further complications arose when Colombia was removed as a host due to civil protests, and Argentina was unable to host because of rising COVID-19 case rates. Brazil eventually stepped in as the sole host.
The final venue, the Maracanã, is the largest stadium in Brazil. Due to health restrictions, it operated at only 10 percent capacity, admitting 6,500 spectators. The pitch had to be re-laid by CONMEBOL (the South American Football Confederation) just days before the final after players had criticized the playing surfaces at other venues.
Argentina's Journey
Under manager Lionel Scaloni, Argentina blended a younger core with veterans like Messi, Ángel Di María, and Sergio Agüero. After winning Group A, they defeated Ecuador 3–0 in the quarter-finals, with Messi contributing to all three goals. Their semi-final against Colombia ended 1–1 in regulation, but goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez secured a 3–2 victory in a penalty shoot-out, saving three shots in a match that set records for fouls and yellow cards.
Brazil's Path
The Seleção (the Brazilian national team) entered as defending champions. Led by Thiago Silva and Neymar, Brazil dominated Group B, including a 4–0 win over Peru and a 2–1 comeback against Colombia. In the knockout stages, they overcame Chile 1–0 in the quarter-finals and Peru 1–0 in the semi-finals, with Lucas Paquetá scoring in both matches.
Match Analysis: Argentina 1–0 Brazil
The final was a tense affair defined by tactical discipline and defensive resilience. The deadlock was broken in the 22nd minute when Ángel Di María scored the lone goal of the match, providing Argentina with a lead they would protect until the final whistle.
Brazil attempted to respond in the second half, with manager Tite introducing Roberto Firmino to boost the attack. Brazil created several opportunities, including a strike by Richarlison that was ruled offside and another that was saved by Emiliano Martínez. The match grew heated in the closing stages, resulting in a shoving match and a yellow card for Nicolás Otamendi in the 81st minute.
Final Match Summary
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Final Score | Argentina 1 – 0 Brazil |
| Goal Scorer | Ángel Di María (22') |
| Referee | Esteban Ostojich (Uruguay) |
| Attendance | 6,500 |
| Weather | 21 °C (70 °F), 88% humidity |
Post-Match Legacy
The victory was a landmark achievement for Argentina, tying them with Uruguay for the most Copa América titles in history. Beyond the trophy, individual accolades recognized the tournament's top performers: Lionel Messi was named the best player of the tournament and shared the top goalscorer award with Colombia's Luis Díaz. Emiliano Martínez was honored as the best goalkeeper.
This victory acted as a catalyst for Argentina's subsequent international success, which included winning the CONMEBOL–UEFA Cup of Champions against Italy and the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who scored the winning goal in the 2021 Copa América final?
Ángel Di María scored the only goal of the match in the 22nd minute, securing a 1–0 victory for Argentina.
How long had Argentina gone without a Copa América title?
Argentina ended a 28-year trophy drought, having not won the tournament since 1993.
Why was the attendance at the Maracanã so low?
The stadium was limited to 10 percent capacity (6,500 spectators) due to COVID-19 restrictions in place at the time.
What individual awards did Lionel Messi win during the tournament?
Lionel Messi was named the best player of the tournament and shared the top goalscorer award with Luis Díaz of Colombia.
Who was the referee for the final match?
The match was officiated by Esteban Ostojich from Uruguay.