Defending champions of the Copa America, Argentina, march onto the semifinals after beating Ecuador 4-2 on penalties in the quarter-finals at the NRG Stadium in Houston.
In front of 69,456 fans, goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez was the hero for the reigning World Champions once again – just as he did two years ago in the 2022 World Cup staged in Qatar.
Ecuador were more dominant in the opening minutes of the game as Moises Canceido had a shot at goal well blocked by Argentine goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez, who had already kept 6 clean sheets before the game.
In the 15th minute, the Ecuadorians tested the Argentine goalkeeper again when Jeremy Sarmiento fired at goal; his chance to put Ecuador ahead was thwarted by Emiliano Martinez.
The World Champions made use of one golden opportunity when Mac Allister provided an assist for Manchester United’s youngster Lisandro Martinez to score the opener with a superb header in the 35th minute. His first in the tournament and Argentina’s 10th goal in the 2024 Copa America.
In the second half, Enner Valencia missed a penalty that was awarded to Ecuador as he saw his effort hit the right post, failing to get the equalizer for his team.
Ecuador were dominant in the second half with a lion’s share of the ball ( 59% ) against 41% for Argentina. Their efforts finally paid off in the 90th minute when John Yeboah, with a solo effort, produced a well-lofted cross that met the head of Kevin Rodriguez and went straight into the bottom left corner of the net, resulting in a goal for Ecuador.
Oh, no. The celebrations for Ecuador might be cut short (it seemed) as the referee was called to review a foul in the buildup to the goal. But after minutes of checks, the goal stood and the celebrations continued for Ecuador. There was no extra time as the game was decided on penalties, according to the competitions rules.
During the shootout
Lionel Messi of Argentina and Ángel Mena of Ecuador both missed in the first round.
Julian Alvarez scored for Argentina, but Alan Minda missed in the second round. Argentina 1-0.
Alexis Mac Allister scored for Argentina, and John Yeboah also scored for Ecuador. Argentina 2-1.
Gonzalo Montiel scored for Argentina, and Jordy Caicedo scored for Ecuador in the third round. Argentina 3-2.
Nicolás Otamendi won the game for Argentina as the shootout ended it 4-2 for the reigning Champions to advance to the semi-finals.
Interestingly, during the game against Ecuador, Lionel Messi set another record in his career – playing the most minutes in the history of Copa America. He set the record in the 66th minute, playing his 3,063rd minute all-time in the tournament.
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Story by: David Kwaku Dzaku| univers.ug.edu.gh
