Argentina triumphed over Ecuador in a thrilling penalty shootout, securing a spot in the Copa America semi-finals with a 4-2 victory on penalties. Goalkeeper Emi Martinez emerged as the hero by making two crucial saves following a 1-1 draw in regular time.
The match saw Lisandro Martinez give Argentina the lead before Kevin Rodriguez equalized for Ecuador in stoppage time. Copa America rules dictate no extra time in knockout stages except for the final, leading directly to the penalty shootout.
In the shootout, Lionel Messi hit the crossbar with Argentina’s first attempt, but Emi Martinez’s saves against Angel Mena and Alan Minda ensured the defending champions advanced to face either Venezuela or Canada in the semi-finals.
Messi, despite concerns over a hamstring injury that kept him out of Argentina’s final group match against Peru, started the game and broke the record for most minutes played in Copa America history.
Argentina dominated possession early, but Ecuador had the first clear chance when Jeremy Sarmiento forced a save from a tight angle. Argentina took the lead in the 35th minute when Alexis Mac Allister’s header found Lisandro Martinez at the far post, who scored his first international goal.
Ecuador increased their pressure in the second half, and their persistence paid off when Rodrigo De Paul’s handball in the box resulted in a penalty. Enner Valencia stepped up but saw his effort hit the post, with Argentina defender Cristian Romero blocking the rebound.
In stoppage time, Ecuador finally broke through. John Yeboah’s cross found Kevin Rodriguez, who stayed onside to head past Emi Martinez in the 91st minute, leveling the score.
However, Emi Martinez redeemed himself in the shootout, making two vital saves before Nicolas Otamendi converted the winning penalty, securing Argentina’s place in the semi-finals.
