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Colombia forward Luis Diaz made an emphatic statement about winning the Copa America title over Argentina 'with the help of God.' The 27-year-old is all set to play in his first major final with the national team and has eyes on South America's ultimate prize.
Los Cafeteros will play in the showpiece clash 23 years after winning it on home turf but face a stern test against the holders at Miami Gardens.
After winning it three years ago, Albiceleste are looking to retain their Copa America crown, which would also mark their first international trophy since the World Cup in December 2022.
Lionel Messi and company are the overwhelming favorites to prevail again, given their experience and talented squad, but Colombia's Diaz is defiant. The Liverpool forward avowed that his side will prevail with the support of the Almighty.
He said:
"I know that we are going to win the Copa América against Argentina with the help of God.”
In 2019, Colombia stunned Lionel Scaloni's side with a 2-0 win in the group stages before a 1-1 draw in the semi-finals of the 2021 edition, although Albiceleste later prevailed 3-2 on penalties. Interestingly, Diaz was on target for Colombia that day, and the 27-year-old will be looking to produce the goods for his side once more on Sunday.
Albiceleste and Colombia lock horns in the 2024 Copa America final at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida, on Sunday.
Colombia will be banking on their unbeaten record to beat Argentina
On paper, Argentina are the stronger team, but Colombia emerged as one of the most in-form sides of the last few months. In fact, Los Cafeteros are unbeaten in 28 games, winning 22, which includes five at the ongoing tournament.
But ironically, Colombia's last competitive defeat came against Argentina in February 2022, when Albiceleste secured a narrow 1-0 win in a 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifier.
Since then, however, Colombia have been a different kettle of fish and will be banking on their form to prevail over Albiceleste and win their first Copa America title since 2001.
