- Emi Martinez shines in penalty shootout as Argentina defeats Ecuador 4-2 to reach Copa America semi-finals.
- Lionel Messi misses penalty, but Martinez saves two Ecuadorian penalties to lead Argentina to victory.
- Argentina advances to face Canada or Venezuela in semi-finals, while Ecuador parts ways with manager Felix Sanchez after defeat.
Aston Villa goalkeeper Emi Martinez was the hero as Argentina booked their spot in the Copa America semi-finals with a 4-2 penalty shootout win over Ecuador. Martinez’s saves and leadership were instrumental in Argentina’s victory, as he stopped two Ecuadorian penalties and inspired his teammates to convert their own spot kicks.
Messi’s Miss and Martinez’s Saves
After a 1-1 draw in normal time, the match went straight to penalties. Lionel Messi’s chipped effort hit the crossbar, but Martinez saved Ecuador’s first two spot kicks from Angel Mena and Alan Minda. Martinez’s saves were crucial, as they gave Argentina the momentum they needed to take control of the shootout.
Argentina’s Winning Streak
Manchester City’s Julian Alvarez and Liverpool’s Alexis Mac Allister scored for Argentina, while former Manchester City defender Nicolas Otamendi converted the winning penalty. Argentina’s players celebrated wildly after Otamendi’s goal, relieved to have secured their place in the semi-finals.
Ecuador’s Late Equalizer
The underdogs had forced penalties with an injury-time equalizer, Kevin Rodriguez heading an in-swinging cross past Martinez. Ecuador’s goal was a stunning blow to Argentina, who had been leading since the first half.
First-Half Lead
Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez had given Argentina the lead in the first half with a close-range header from a corner. Argentina had dominated the first half, but Ecuador fought back in the second half, creating several chances before equalizing in injury time.
Ecuador’s Missed Chances
Ecuador missed a chance to level on the hour-mark when captain Enner Valencia hit the post from the penalty spot. Valencia’s miss was a costly one, as Ecuador went on to lose the shootout.
Martinez’s Impressive Record
The former Arsenal goalkeeper has now faced 24 penalties for Argentina and has conceded just 12, with nine saves and three off-target misses. Martinez’s record is impressive, and he has established himself as one of the top goalkeepers in the world.
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Next Up: Semi-Finals
Argentina, the 15-time winners of the Copa America, will face either Canada or Venezuela in the semi-finals. Argentina will be favored to win, but they know that they cannot take their opponents lightly.
Ecuador Parts Ways with Manager
Ecuador parted ways with manager Felix Sanchez after the defeat, despite having three years left on his deal. Sanchez’s departure was a surprise, but Ecuador’s football federation decided that a change was needed.
In conclusion, Argentina’s victory over Ecuador was a thrilling match that went down to the wire. Emi Martinez’s heroics in the penalty shootout were the difference between the two teams, and Argentina will be grateful to have him in goal as they seek to win their 16th Copa America title.
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