Angel Di Maria's superbly-executed lob midway through the first half was enough to see Argentina crowned champions of the continent and end Lionel Messi's long wait for a major international title.

Messi had played in nine tournaments for his country without success prior to this year's Copa América, moved to Brazil from Argentina and Colombia on short notice.

Argentina's victory stopped Brazil from defending the crown they clinched in 2019 and prevented them from continuing their record of winning the competition every time they have hosted it.

The final at Maracanã Stadium was the first of the tournament to be played in front of spectators, with 7,000 guests invited to attend.

They were treated to an intriguing but not enthralling contest between the two arch rivals, which sparked into life when Di Maria gave Argentina the lead after 22 minutes.

He took full advantage of an error from Renan Lodi, who failed to cut out a long ball forward from Rodrigo De Paul, by lobbing a stranded Ederson in the Brazilian goal.

Richarlison had Brazil's best chances as he had an effort ruled out for offside and forced Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez into a smart save.

Martinez also thwarted Gabriel Barbosa as Argentina saw off their opponents to seal a record-equalling 15th Copa América title.

Earlier, Colombia had defeated Peru 3-2 to clinch third place in the playoff at the Estádio Nacional Mané Garrincha in Brasília thanks to a 25-yard strike in injury time from Luis Diaz, his second of the match.