Lisandro Martinez became the first Manchester United player to reach the semi-finals of this winter’s World Cup earlier this week as his Argentina narrowly beat the Netherlands on penalties.
Argentina claimed a two-goal lead and with roughly 15 minutes remaining, it looked like a routine win for the South American giants.
A courageous fightback from Louis van Gaal’s men, including a 101st-minute equaliser from Wout Weghorst, ensured the game went the distance and eventually to penalties.
Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez dominated proceedings and Argentina reached the semi-finals for the second time in the last three World Cups.
United defender Martinez had started just one game prior to the game against the Netherlands but was drafted back into the side and unsurprisingly, he was one of Argentina’s outstanding players.
Speaking after the game, the passionate 24-year-old was visibly emotional as he discussed helping his nation into the final four of this storied tournament.
El llanto de Lisandro Martínez emociona. ❤️🇦🇷 pic.twitter.com/8BpInh5Pyj
— DEPORTV (@canaldeportv) December 9, 2022
Argentina will now face Croatia in the semi-final next week and Martinez will be hoping to keep his place in the side, having impressed whenever he has featured under Lionel Scaloni.
