Listen to Story Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni paid rich tribute to Angel Di Maria, urging the veteran winger to bow out in front of a home crowd. Di Maria had said he would want to end his international career on a high before the Copa America in the United States and he hinted at hanging up his boots after Argentina won the final. Scaloni's men scripted history by becoming the most successful team in the history of the competition after beating Colombia 1-0 in the final at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami.
Angel di Maria was given a hero's reception by the fans at the stadium as he acknowledged their support, hinting he was not going to wear the Argentina shirt again . He was emotional after the final whistle was blown as he shared warm hugs with coach Scaloni, Lionel Messi, and the rest of his teammates. "He's a legend, there's no way to convince him (to stay on) but maybe at least play one more and say goodbye to his fans because he deserves it.
His story is like a movie because of how it ended," Scaloni said after Argentina won the Copa America. Coach Scaloni heaped praise on Di Maria's commitment in the final as the 37-year-old played 117 minutes on the field before he was replaced by Nicholas Otamendi. Di Maria was not able to sign off with a trademark goal in a final, but he was named the Player for he Match in the big final for running the show throughout the contest.
A 112th-minute strike from Lautaro Martinez sealed the deal for Argentina as they held their nerves to bea.
