Argentina advanced to the Copa America semifinal thanks to two penalties saved by Emi Martinez that kept Lionel Messi’s blushes in check.

In the Copa America, Argentina has not yet reached their peak. At times, La Albiceleste have been careless, a pale imitation of their World Cup-winning team. However, another dismal showing on Friday night was sufficient as the defending champions defeated Ecuador 4-2 on penalties following a 1-1 draw in regulation to guarantee a semifinal berth.

Lionel Messi had a difficult time during the match, failing to leave his mark and missing a penalty kιck once more. Nevertheless, those surrounding him made the right decisions; Emi Martinez prevented Argentina from losing twice.

After thirty-five minutes, Lisandro Martinez of La Albicelste scored the game’s first goal at the far post following a skillfully executed corner routine. Before the half, Enzo Fernandez had a chance to double the score, but he missed it by a close margin.

They looked like they would have won in regulation time, but Kevin Rodriguez’s glancing header in stoppage time in the second half forced penalties.

Argentina’s opening goal was missed by Messi, but Martinez held strong, and the rest of the Albiceleste scored to guarantee a seventh consecutive semi-final berth.

Emi Martinez (10/10):

Made some smart stops in the first half. Saved two penalties in yet another heroic shootout performance.

Nahuel Molina (7/10):

Won almost all of his tackles, made a couple of important recoveries, and kept the dangerous Kendry Paez quiet.

Lisandro Martinez (8/10):

Couldn’t miss from close range to open the scoring – his first goal for the national team. Solid defensively, too.

Christian Romero (7/10):

Circulated the ball well, won his duels, and drew a few important free-kicks to kιll the game late on.

Nico Tagliafico (6/10):

Completed all-but one of his passes. Most of the Ecuador threаt came down the other wing.

Rodrigo De Paul (6/10):

carried out his defensive duties in a new right-sided role with effectiveness. blundered a handball and gave away a penalty.

Alexis Mac Allister (8/10):

In the centre of the park, elegant and well-kept. helped his team’s first goal. So subtle, yet so powerful.

Enzo Fernandez (5/10):

squandered three excellent opportunities in the first half. shaky while in control and inadequate on defence as well. Not his finest performance.

Nico Gonzalez (6/10):

Shifted to the left and devoured the grass. minimally offensively offered, but it made no difference.

Lionel Messi (6/10):

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Lautaro Martinez (5/10):

Fed off scraps in the first half. Didn’t have many more opportunities after the break. Subbed after a frustrating hour.