Argentina's Triumph: A Deeper Look Beyond Messi's Absence

Argentina's historic Copa América victory showcases the team's depth and resilience, despite Lionel Messi's injury.

Argentina's thrilling 1-0 extra-time triumph over Colombia in the Copa América final cemented their place as only the second national team in men's soccer history to achieve three consecutive major international tournament victories, following in the footsteps of 2008-2012 Spain.

This triumph holds even greater significance as it was achieved without the full presence of Lionel Messi, who departed the match in tears due to a right ankle injury. Messi's absence tested Argentina's mettle, but the team rose to the occasion, demonstrating their capabilities beyond their legendary captain.

Argentina's Triumph: A Deeper Look Beyond Messi's Absence

"To do it with this man on the sideline, to go through this tournament with a Messi not at his best because of injury, a Messi only scoring one goal in the [entire tournament], this is where you give credit to the other players that don't wear a No. 10 shirt and have ‘Messi' on the back of the jersey, because in big moments throughout this tournament, they had to step up and make plays," remarked Maurice Edu of "FOX Soccer NOW."

Goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez played a pivotal role, saving a crucial penalty during the shootout. Lautaro Martínez netted the winning goal, proving that Argentina's firepower extends beyond Messi. This victory bodes well for the future, especially with the emergence of young players like Garnacho and Nicolás González.

However, the question remains whether Messi, now 37 years old, will continue with the team. While he has hinted at a desire to stay, a definitive decision on his future is yet to be made. Ángel Di María, Messi's longtime teammate, played his final game for Argentina on Sunday, leaving behind a void that needs to be filled.

"I don't know so much about their age and depth," Melissa Ortiz of "FOX Soccer NOW" said about Argentina. "I wish we would have seen Messi longer, but things happen for a reason. I think that can also build confidence of these players. This is what it looks like when the ‘G.O.A.T.' is at some point soon going to retire, and also what the team looks like without Di María."

Despite the uncertainty surrounding Messi's future, Argentina's midfield remains formidable. Paulo Dybala, a notable omission from the team, possesses the potential to step up. Edu pondered the possibility of Messi transitioning into a different role in the 2026 World Cup, where he could still provide guidance and inspiration without being the focal point.

The circumstances of Sunday's final, with Argentina triumphing despite Messi's absence, could serve as an incentive for the Inter Miami superstar to continue with the national team. The prospect of a fourth major international tournament victory in the 2026 World Cup is a tantalizing one that could keep Messi motivated.

Argentina's Copa América triumph is a testament to their collective strength and resilience. While Messi's presence remains an undeniable factor, the team has proven that they can overcome adversity and achieve success even in his absence. As they look towards the future, Argentina will need to cultivate new leaders and identify the players who will fill the void left by Messi and Di María.