Roger Martinez and Duvan Zapata put a dent in Lionel Messi's hopes of finally landing a major international title as Colombia began their Copa America campaign with a 2-0 win over Argentina on Saturday. 

Martinez struck a stunning opener at the 72nd minute and fellow substitute Zapata sealed the win three minutes from the end after Argentina had dominated the second half of this Group B encounter in Salvador. 

Colombia had looked stronger in the first half but Argentina were a different beast when Rodrigo de Paul replaced Angel di Maria immediately after the interval and captain Lionel Messi was able to find space to cause some problems. 

Messi wasted the best chance of the game before Martinez's piledriver broke the deadlock when he skewed a rebound wide from close range, and the Barcelona forward also went on a thrilling solo run into the area but could not get a shot away. 

A mass brawl ensued when Messi was cut down by Colombia's Juan Cuadrado in the second half while Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes fizzed two shots at goal. 

Colombia top Group B with three points ahead of Qatar's meeting with Paraguay on Sunday. 

Meanwhile, Christofer Gonzales and Jefferson Farfan had goals annulled by the video assistant referee (VAR) as Peru and Venezuela drew 0-0 in their Group A clash on Saturday. 
 

(With input from AFP and Reuters)