Sport
Argentina Wins Copa America 2024, Lautaro Martinez Claims Golden Boot
After a thrilling conclusion to the Copa America 2024 in Miami, USA, Argentina emerged victorious over Colombia with a narrow 1-0 win in the final, securing their retention of the prestigious trophy.
The decisive goal came in the 112th minute courtesy of Lautaro Martinez, marking his fifth goal of the tournament and earning him the coveted Golden Boot as the top scorer.
Meanwhile, Argentina’s goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez claimed the Golden Glove award for his impressive tally of 5 clean sheets throughout the competition.
Colombia’s James Rodriguez was recognized for his stellar performance with the Golden Ball award, having contributed 6 assists during the tournament.
The prize money distribution reflected the competitive intensity, with Argentina receiving Rs 133.66 crore for their triumph, while Colombia earned Rs 58.47 crore for their commendable campaign.
This year’s Copa America showcased thrilling football and outstanding individual performances, solidifying its status as one of the premier international tournaments in the world of football.
José Mourinho has shared his thoughts on the 2026 Ballon d’Or award and what he believes makes a player deserving of the prestigious honour.
Mourinho was asked about the players in contention for the award and stated that, in his opinion, the best player in the world does not necessarily have to be the one who wins trophies.
He said: “For me, the best player in the world can also be one without trophies.”
The 2026 Ballon d’Or race is currently dominated by several top contenders, with Harry Kane, Lamine Yamal, Kylian Mbappé, Ousmane Dembélé, Lionel Messi and other nominees are also in contention.
The 2026 Ballon d’Or nominees have been revealed, showing the players who have the chance to win the Ballon d’Or award this year.
Here is the list of players nominated for the 2026 Ballon d’Or:
- Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid, England)
- Pau Cubarsí (Barcelona, Spain)
- Marc Cucurella (Chelsea/Real Madrid, Spain)
- Ousmane Dembélé (Paris Saint-Germain, France)
- Luis Díaz (Bayern Munich, Colombia)
- Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United, Portugal)
- Gabriel (Arsenal, Brazil)
- Erling Haaland (Manchester City, Norway)
- Achraf Hakimi (Paris Saint-Germain, Morocco)
- Harry Kane (Bayern Munich, England)
- Khvicha Kvaratskhelia (Paris Saint-Germain, Georgia)
- Lamine Yamal (Barcelona, Spain)
- Sadio Mané (Al-Nassr, Senegal)
- Marquinhos (Paris Saint-Germain, Brazil)
- Lautaro Martínez (Inter Milan, Argentina)
- Kylian Mbappé (Real Madrid, France)
- Nuno Mendes (Paris Saint-Germain, Portugal)
- Lionel Messi (Inter Miami, Argentina)
- João Neves (Paris Saint-Germain, Portugal)
- Michael Olise (Bayern Munich, France)
- Willian Pacho (Paris Saint-Germain, Ecuador)
- Julián Quiñones (Al-Qadsiah, México)
- Declan Rice (Arsenal, England)
- Rodri (Manchester City, Spain)
- Fabián Ruiz (Paris Saint-Germain, Spain)
- William Saliba (Arsenal, France)
- Ferran Torres (Barcelona, Spain)
- Dayot Upamecano (Bayern Munich, France)
- Vinícius Jr. (Real Madrid, Brazil)
- Vitinha (Paris Saint-Germain, Portugal)
Barcelona footballer Lamine Yamal has spoken about the Ballon d’Or award and shared how he will not campaign for the award.
He said: “I don’t think I need to campaign for the Ballon d’Or. Everyone is entitled to think whatever they want.
“I’m not here to campaign, and I’m not going to beg for anything. That’s your job. It’s not on me.
“Winning the Ballon d’Or does not depend on me. The work we’ve done with Barça and the national team has been unbelievable.
“I’ll be grateful to my teammates at Barça and with the national team if I win it, of course.”
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