Although Argentina won the Copa América, the award for the best player of the tournament was given to the Colombian.
The Colombian James Rodríguez was elected the best player of the 48th edition of the Copa América, after the defeat in the final against Argentina, 1-0, after extra time.
Despite not being able to lead the Cafeteros to a second title, repeating their 2001 victory, James outperformed the competition from the Argentinians, who won their 16th title, and second consecutive one. His individual brilliance and ability to influence the game were evident throughout the tournament, showcasing his exceptional skills and playmaking abilities.
In the 2024 edition of the Copa América, the Colombian number 10 scored one goal and provided six assists, breaking the record of Argentina's Lionel Messi, who had five assists in 2021. James's performance was pivotal in Colombia's journey to the final, and his vision and creativity on the field were unmatched. His record-breaking assists highlight his role as a key playmaker for the team, consistently setting up scoring opportunities for his teammates.
Colombia, which finished in second place, also received the "fair play" award. This accolade reflects the team's commitment to sportsmanship and fair play throughout the tournament. Despite the disappointment of not winning the title, Colombia's players and coaching staff can take pride in their conduct and the positive spirit they displayed on the field.
On the other hand, Emiliano Martínez, who conceded only one goal throughout the entire tournament, was named the best goalkeeper. His exceptional performances between the posts were crucial for Argentina's success, providing a solid foundation for the team’s defense. Martínez's calm and commanding presence in goal earned him widespread acclaim and recognition as the tournament's top shot-stopper.
Meanwhile, Lautaro Martínez finished as the top scorer with five goals, two more than Venezuelan Salomón Rondón. Lautaro's clinical finishing and ability to find the back of the net in crucial moments made him an invaluable asset for Argentina. His goal-scoring prowess played a significant role in Argentina’s path to lifting the Copa América trophy.
Overall, the 2024 Copa América showcased some of the best talents in South American football. The tournament highlighted the individual brilliance of players like James Rodríguez, Emiliano Martínez, and Lautaro Martínez, while also emphasizing the importance of teamwork, sportsmanship, and competitive spirit. As fans reflect on the memorable matches and outstanding performances, the legacy of this edition of the Copa América will continue to inspire future generations of footballers.
