Emi Martinez saved two crucial penalties, ensuring Argentina’s progression to the Copa America semifinals despite Lionel Messi’s struggles. Argentina has yet to find their peak form in the tournament.
La Albiceleste have often appeared disjointed, a far cry from their World Cup-winning days.
However, Thursday evening saw them scrape through with a 4-2 penalty shootout victory over Ecuador, following a 1-1 draw in regulation time.
Lionel Messi had a tough match, failing to make a significant impact and missing a penalty.
Yet, his teammates stepped up, with Emi Martinez’s heroics in the shootout proving decisive.
Argentina took the lead after 35 minutes when Lisandro Martinez headed in from a well-executed corner.
Enzo Fernandez had a chance to double the lead before halftime but narrowly missed.
It seemed Argentina would secure the win in regular time, but Kevin Rodriguez’s late header pushed the game to penalties.
Although Messi missed Argentina’s first spot-kick, Emi Martinez’s saves and successful conversions from the rest of La Albiceleste ensured their place in the semifinals for the fifth consecutive time.