Argentina winger Angel Di Maria expressed his joy and fulfillment after helping his team secure their third consecutive major title at the Copa America, following their wins in 2021 and the World Cup. The 36-year-old had announced his retirement from international duty after the tournament, making the victory even more special for him. Di Maria described the win as a dream come true and a perfect ending to his career with the national team. He was emotional as he bid farewell to the fans and expressed his gratitude to his teammates for their support and contributions to his success.
Coach Lionel Scaloni’s decision to substitute Di Maria in the final minutes of extra time allowed the winger to receive a heartfelt farewell from the fans. Di Maria was part of a generation that included Lionel Messi and won the Olympics in 2008, but struggled to secure silverware in major tournaments. The recent Copa America victory, which also marks Argentina’s record 16th title, solidifies Lionel Scaloni’s team as one of the greats in South American football. Di Maria acknowledged the challenges of reaching and winning finals, expressing his appreciation for the efforts and dedication of his teammates in achieving their recent success.
Di Maria’s history of scoring important goals for Argentina, such as the winning goal in Beijing for the gold medal and the goal in the 2021 Copa America final against Brazil, further highlights his contributions to the national team’s success. The winger reflected on the difficulties and frustrations of previous tournaments, emphasizing the persistence and determination required to achieve victory. Winning the Copa America and retiring on a high note was a fitting end to Di Maria’s career, as he leaves behind a legacy of success and dedication to the national team. The winger’s impact and influence on Argentine football will be remembered and celebrated by fans and teammates alike for years to come.
