The Copa America, a tournament first held in 1916, recently concluded its 48th edition in the United States from June 20 to July 14, featuring 16 teams competing to determine the champion.

This morning at 7:30 AM, the final match took place at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, between two outstanding teams: Argentina, led by Lionel Messi, and Colombia, led by James Rodriguez. The match was fiercely contested, with a dramatic moment coming from Messi’s severe ankle injury, which saw him leave the field in tears. Ultimately, Argentina successfully defended their Copa America title with a late second-half extra-time goal from Lautaro Martinez.

Winning the final match of the Copa America, Argentina will receive a substantial reward from the tournament organizers. The runner-up, Colombia, will be awarded $7 million, while the champions, Argentina, will receive nearly double that amount at $16 million. This prize money will be allocated to the players, coaching staff, and a portion will go to the treasury of the winning federation, in this case, La Albiceleste.

Additionally, the South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL) will distribute $72 million among all 16 participating teams, meaning each team will receive $2 million for their participation in the tournament held in the U.S. this summer.

As teams progress through the tournament, the rewards become more attractive. The two teams that lose in the semifinals will compete in a third-place playoff, with the winner, Uruguay, receiving $5 million and the loser, Canada, getting $4 million.

In summary, La Albiceleste will receive at least $18 million in prize money from this tournament, with the potential for further increases. This substantial reward is a fitting recognition of the team’s efforts throughout the competition. Argentina has maintained their ambition after winning the World Cup two years ago in Qatar, demonstrating resilience and skill in this year’s Copa America.

This victory not only bolsters Argentina’s footballing legacy but also sets the stage for future successes on the international stage.