Argentina secured their place in the Copa America quarterfinals with a dramatic 1-0 win over Chile, thanks to an 88th-minute goal from substitute Lautaro Martinez. The match, held at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, saw Argentina dominate but struggle to break through until Martinez’s late winner.
Lionel Messi nearly scored in the first half, hitting the post, while goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez kept Argentina in the game with crucial saves. Despite creating numerous chances, Argentina couldn’t beat Chile’s 41-year-old goalkeeper Claudio Bravo until the final minutes.
Julian Alvarez and Nicolas Gonzalez were among those who tested Bravo early on, with Messi also coming close from a 25-yard shot. Chile had their moments, particularly through Rodrigo Echeverria, but Emiliano Martinez stood firm.
The breakthrough came when Chile failed to clear Messi’s corner, allowing Lautaro Martinez to score from close range. Argentina could have added a second through Angel Di Maria, but one goal proved enough.
With this win, Argentina tops Group A and is guaranteed a top-two finish, securing their quarterfinal spot with a game to spare. They will face Peru in their final group match on Sunday.
In other Copa America action, Jonathan David’s goal gave Canada a 1-0 victory over Peru in Kansas City, reviving their campaign after an initial loss to Argentina. David scored after Peru was reduced to 10 men, following Miguel Araujo’s dismissal for a foul. Despite Peru’s efforts to equalize, Canada’s goalkeeper Maxime Crepeau made crucial saves to secure the win.
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