After a more than one-hour-long delay due to a mass of non-ticket holders forcing themselves into the stadium on Sunday (July 14), the 2024 Copa America final match — where Argentina and Colombia face each other on the field for the championship trophy — officially began at 9:15 p.m. ET.
As tradition holds, the national anthems of each country were performed ahead of the big game: Karol G helmed Colombia’s national anthem, and Abel Pintos sang Argentina’s national anthem. Videos of the two acts rehearsing at the stadium circulated on social media early Sunday, confirming both of their performances.
Pintos — dressed in a royal blue suit — performed the anthem backed by a passionate and emotional team who sang along. Meanwhile, Karol rocked the signature Colombian jersey and a black leather skirt with knee-high boots as she was accompanied by a roaring crowd.
Pintos and Karol were not the only music stars present at the soccer tournament. Maluma, Feid, Ryan Castr and Blessd, were also spotted at the stands in support of their national team.
Earlier this month, it was confirmed that Shakira will perform during the halftime show, marking the first time that the Colombian hitmaker will perform at the oldest international soccer tournament. “Get ready to feel the greatness in a show that will make the continent vibrate!” read the official announcement.
On game night, the Colombian global star expressed in her Instagram story, “See you tonight at the Copa America final. I’m nervous!”
Both the Colombian and Argentine national teams have proven to be the best in the field since the soccer tournament began on June 20, eliminating other strong countries such as Brazil, Uruguay and Venezuela. Now, renowned athletes such as Colombia’s James Rodriguez and Argentina’s Lionel Messi are battling out on the field for the 2024 championship title.
Up to now, Argentina has won 15 Copa titles, while Colombia nabbed one in 2001.