Colombia’s James Rodriguez has reignited controversy months after the 2024 Copa America final, alleging that referee Raphael Claus unfairly favored Lionel Messi’s Argentina in their dramatic title clash. Rodriguez, who was named Player of the Tournament, believes that officiating decisions played a decisive role in Colombia’s heartbreaking defeat.
James led his nation on a remarkable run through the tournament, helping them reach their first Copa America final since 2001. Despite their impressive campaign, Colombia fell to Argentina in extra time, as Lautaro Martinez scored the winning goal just minutes before a penalty shootout seemed inevitable.
While Argentina celebrated their second consecutive Copa America title, Rodriguez has not forgotten the final heartbreak—and he now claims that the referee’s decisions influenced the outcome of the match.
James Rodriguez breaks his silence on the final
In a recent Los Amigos de Edu interview, Rodriguez expressed his frustration, stating that the referee favored Argentina. According to the former Real Madrid playmaker, his team was denied a clear penalty that could have changed the course of the final. “We had an excellent Copa America. Obviously, we wanted the title, but we didn’t win the Copa America because of external things, I think… The referee favored Argentina. He didn’t give us penalties. For me, a clear one,” Rodriguez said.
He did not specify which moment he was referring to, but his words reflect a lingering sense of injustice among Colombia’s squad and supporters.
Despite his frustration, the 33-year-old Colombian captain acknowledged Argentina’s strength, admitting that Lionel Scaloni’s side played well and ultimately secured victory on their own terms. However, he believes the referee’s decisions tilted the balance in favor of La Albiceleste, hurting Los Cafeteros’ chances of securing a historic title.
Colombia’s rising ambitions in CONMEBOL
Despite the painful defeat, Colombia’s performance at the 2024 Copa America demonstrated that they are emerging as a major force in South American soccer. Head coach Nestor Lorenzo has built a well-balanced squad, with Rodriguez leading as the team’s creative force, while Premier League stars Jefferson Lerma and Daniel Munoz add stability in key positions.
Rodriguez’s resurgence as a world-class playmaker was one of the tournament’s biggest storylines. His career has been filled with ups and downs since his breakthrough at the 2014 FIFA World Cup, but in this tournament, he silenced his critics, playing at an elite level once again.
The star veteran was instrumental in Colombia’s run to the final, playing a very different role than the one that earned him the Golden Boot at the 2014 World Cup. This time, he excelled as a playmaker, leading the tournament with six assists—far ahead of any other player, as the next-best providers managed only two.
