James Rodriguez claims Lionel Messi & Argentina were 'favoured' by referee in final of 2024 Copa America as Colombia star blames 'external things' for heartbreaking defeat

Rodriguez enjoyed a terrific run of form at the Copa America last year as he helped Colombia reach the final. The ex-Real Madrid star was even named the player of the tournament, but he failed to cross the final hurdle with his national team as reigning champions Argentina successfully defended their title thanks to an extra-time winner from Lautaro Martinez.

Despite a stellar run of form, Rodriguez has still not gotten over the final heartbreak and has now made serious allegations against the match official. The ex-Everton attacker has claimed that La Albiceleste and Lionel Messi were "favoured" by referee Claus, who according to Rodriguez, did not give Colombia a genuine penalty.

Speaking on the Los Amigos de Edu programme, Rodriguez said: "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 favoured Argentina. He didn’t give us penalties. For me a clear one."

The 33-year-old has been named in the latest Colombia squad and is likely to take the field next against Brazil in a World Cup qualifying game on Friday.