Inter forward Lautaro Martinez has refused to hide his delight as Argentina claimed a 1-0 over Brazil to lift the Copa America 2021 trophy. Angel Di Maria scored a delightful lob to end La Albiceleste’s exhausting 28-year title drought.
The Argentineans had never defeated Brazil in a Copa America meeting held on Brazilian soil before, losing five of their six previous encounters. However, Lionel Scaloni’s prevailed when it mattered most as Lionel Messi cruised to his long-awaited first international title.
Despite failing to make a goal contribution at the famous Estadio Maracana, Martinez played all 90 minutes in the grand final. Lautaro had a prominent role under Scaloni at the tournament, with his semi-final strike against Colombia securing a penalty shoot-out for his team.
During the post-game interview, the 23-year-old forward got overwhelmed by emotions as he hailed his teammates for a spirited display against arch-rivals.
“The truth is that it is something truly dreamed of, indescribable. We were the right winners, now let’s enjoy it. Playing against Brazil is always special and Argentina showed more than them today,” he told Argentinian TV station TyC Sports.
“It was clear from his comments that the Inter man does not hold back when he plays for his national team and feels that all players have a duty to perform.
“It is a clear example of how you have to defend this shirt, this emblem, this country: I am proud to belong to this group, of all the work we have done.”
Argentina lost back-to-back Copa America grand finals in 2015 and 2016, but Martinez and co finally managed to make the quantum leap and wrap up the crown this summer.