COPA 2021 Final Played at Maracana Stadium, Rio di Janeiro Brazil

Argentina 1 (Angel Di Maria) Brazil 0  

Solitary goal by fleet footed opportunist Angel Di Maria won La Albicelestes COPA crown after 28 long years. It was in the blockbuster final between two soccer giants Argentina and Brazil. 

Soccer fans and sports enthusiasts all over the world were divided into two camps. Whatever be the case it was tipped to be a super classic. But in a tensed match quality of football never rose above mediocre. Argentina knew its limit, was well aware that they cannot match playing as aggressively as Brazil. They planned playing within their limitation and outwitted Brazil with strategy and had their plan successfully implemented. It was great that finally one of the greatest footballers ever born Lionel Messi lifted the first ever trophy from a major tournament for the national team. 

It is true that Brazil in matters of history and tradition is much richer any other team in the world. But history and records do not always win matches. Argentina also richly deserved to win for playing extraordinary cricket for a while. In this particular tournament Argentina looked better prepared and more organized. During this COVID pandemic Argentina remained together all the time maintaining strict bio bubble protocol. They flew in and flew out from Argentina every day before and after every match. Every other team breached bio bubble in some way. 

Anyway Brazil as host and history in their favor was clear favorite. Possibly they were a bit over confident. In order to neutralize Messi impact possibly Brazil defense lacked attention on fast moving Angel Di Maria. The match started at a brisk pace with Brazil carrying out series of sorties in Argentine territory. Argentina as planned sat back absorbed the waves of attack and in counter attacks opened some cracks in left side of Brazil defense. While Messi kept two three players around him engaged Di Paul floated a high ball towards Angle Di Maria . He penetrated deep into Brazil defense . Cooly Maria tapped the ball over the advancing goalkeeper to the joy of adoring Argentine fans (1-0). 

Another aspect of the match was that Brazil did not change their style of attack even in the changed situation. Having found it difficult to penetrate deep into Argentine defense Brazil should have worked to draw Argentines out of their box and try to score through long drives . Argentina read the Brazil game well. They kept Brazilians in check allowing little room in their defense. Martinez also made some brilliant saves defending the solitary goal lead. 

It was after 28 years Argentina won COPA and that too beating archrivals Brazil in their own backyard. I think this win by Messi Led Argentina is natural justice done.

BDST: 1133 HRS, JUL 11, 2021
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