Argentina advanced to the Copa America semi-finals after a dramatic 4-2 penalty shootout victory over Ecuador on Thursday, following a 1-1 draw in regulation time. Goalkeeper Emi Martinez was the hero, making two crucial saves in the shootout.
Lisandro Martinez gave Argentina the lead in the 35th minute, nodding in a header from Alexis Mac Allister’s flick-on. Ecuador equalized in stoppage time with Kevin Rodriguez’s header, forcing the match into penalties as the tournament does not have extra time until the final.
Despite Lionel Messi missing Argentina’s first penalty, Emi Martinez saved shots from Angel Mena and Alan Minda, securing the win for the defending champions. Argentina will face either Venezuela or Canada in the semi-finals.
Coach Lionel Scaloni praised Martinez, saying, “The team has blind confidence in its goalkeeper, and that is fundamental.” Messi, who started despite a hamstring issue, broke the record for most minutes played in the tournament’s history but struggled to make a significant impact.
Argentina dominated early possession, but Ecuador created the first chance when Jeremy Sarmiento forced Martinez into a save. Ecuador’s Enner Valencia missed a penalty in the second half, hitting the post, which deflated their momentum.
Ecuador coach Felix Sanchez supported Valencia’s effort, saying, “He’s the captain and he took the penalty because he was feeling confident enough, but he missed. That happens in football.”
Ultimately, Martinez’s heroics in the shootout and solid team performance ensured Argentina’s progression to the semi-finals.
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