The best strikes of the year’s biggest South American football fiesta
As 2024 comes to a close, few events have gripped the worldwide football imagination more than the Copa América. The 48th edition of the tournament, hosted for the second time by the United States, brought together the best of CONMEBOL and CONCACAF on one platform. Over 32 exhilarating games, fans watched 70 goals, great performances, and moments that left an everlasting impression on the sport.
ARGENTINA IS YOUR COPA AMÉRICA 2024 CHAMPION 🇦🇷🏆 pic.twitter.com/WuazmoepHN
— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) July 15, 2024
Inspired by talismanic captain Lionel Messi, Argentina won their 16th title with a nail-biting 1-0 victory over Colombia in the final. Emiliano Martínez was the tournament’s most reliable player, but Colombia’s James Rodríguez stood out as the best. Lautaro Martínez won the Golden Boot, scoring five goals.
Despite the joys and heartbreaks, the tournament was defined by the goals, each of which told a narrative of genius and flair. Here are five remarkable Copa América 2024 goals, from long-range screamers to precise chips.
Colombia’s brilliance was fully displayed in the quarterfinal thrashing, but Luis Díaz’s elegant goal stole the show. James Rodríguez saw Díaz’s deft move and fired a precise free-kick into the box. Díaz brilliantly chested the ball and chipped it over the Panama goalie to score the goal. It was more than simply a goal; it was on-field craftsmanship.
During the semifinal match against Canada, Messi showed the world why he is a generational talent. Enzo Fernández fired a shot from beyond the box, but Messi, always on the lookout, deflected it with a deft touch past the confused Canadian goalie. In addition to guaranteeing Argentina’s place in the championship game, Messi’s goal increased the tally to 109, making him the second-highest goalscorer in international men’s history. A momentous occasion encapsulated in Messi’s genius.
Despite the failure of the United States campaign, Folarin Balogun left supporters with a memorable moment. A fierce shot from the edge of the box after a brief one-two with Antonee Robinson in a high-stress group-stage encounter against Panama. The goalie was left stranded as the ball struck the upright and bounced into the net. The goal was worthy of a better result for the hosts.
Vinícius Júnior helped Brazil get into a rhythm against Paraguay following a dismal start to the competition. The Real Madrid star led a flowing team move, including rapid exchanges between Rodrygo, Guimarães, and Paquetá. After receiving the last pass, Vinícius gracefully ducked past the goalie and placed the ball into the goal. It was a goal that exuded collective genius and Brazilian flare.
The tone of Argentina’s campaign was established in their first match against Canada, where Lautaro Martínez scored a goal with incredible skill. Lionel Messi threaded a superb ball to Lautaro, who casually slid it under the goalkeeper’s legs following a 12-pass build-up. The play was a masterpiece in patience and accuracy, extending from Argentina’s defensive line to the final third.
Copa América 2024 reminded fans of the excitement, talent, and love of football. This tournament was a worldwide spectacle and a celebration of South American football, with players like Messi, Díaz, and Vinícius flourishing.
Cheers to 2025 and all the times to come. There is always more to the beautiful game.
