Lionel Messi warms hearts by inviting Di Maria and Otamendi to lift Copa America trophy: video

• The Argentine national team cliched yet another Copa America title following a hard-fought victory against Colombia
• An extra-time goal from forward, Lautaro Martinez, was enough to hand Lionel Scaloni’s side their consecutive Copa title
• Lionel Messi’s gesture during the trophy celebration ceremony has sparked emotional reactions from many fans across social media

Argentina had to dig deep to defend their Copa America title, as Les Albiceleste needed an extra-time winner from forward, Lautaro Martinez, to secure their victory.

The world's top-ranked national team faced a formidable Colombia side, led by James Rodriguez, who had remained undefeated in their last 28 games.

Lionel Scaloni’s men faced a setback when their captain, Lionel Messi, was forced to leave the match early in the second half due to a suspected ankle injury.

Angel Di Maria, Lionel Messi and Nicolas Otamendi hold the trophy after the team's win in the CONMEBOL Copa America vs Colombia at Hard Rock Stadium on July 14, 2024. Image: Carmen Mandato.
Source: UGC

Fortunately for Messi and Argentina, they had enough tricks up their sleeves to overcome the resilient Colombians.

However, while Messi's injury initially dominated the headlines, it was his heartwarming gesture during the trophy celebrations that captured everyone's attention. Messi invited Angel Di Maria and Nicolas Otamendi to lift the trophy with him, highlighting the team's unity and camaraderie.

Messi lifts trophy with Otamendi and Di Maria

In a video shared on social media by Fox Soccer, the 37-year-old beckoned to Di Maria and Otamendi to join him as he prepared to hoist the Copa America winner's trophy.

The gesture by the Inter Miami forward has since made headlines and sparked widespread discussion.

According to a report by Mundo Deportivo, Messi had hinted that the Copa America final could be the last trophy he, Di Maria, and Otamendi lift together, which subtly explains the reason behind his celebratory gesture.

Argentina were crowned Copa America champions for a record 16th time, and Coach Scaloni’s side is set to face Spain in the Finalissima.

Lionel Messi breaks down uncontrollably

Earlier, Legit.ng reported that Messi was reduced to tears after the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner suffered a heartbreaking injury as a niggling ankle issue forced him off the Copa America final against Colombia.

The 37-year-old Argentina skipper was overwhelmed with emotion as he left the pitch, with Nico Gonzalez taking his place.

Luckily, Argentina were able to do the job without the Inter Miami star as Lautaro Martinez fired in a 112th winner to help Argentina retain the title.

Source: TUKO.co.ke