Argentina needed penalties to book their place in the Copa America semi-finals. Lionel Messi needed to be bailed out after Lisandro Martinez scored their only goal in normal time.
The world champions took a 1-0 lead over Ecuador after Martinez’s header in the 35th minute. Messi swung in a ball from a corner, which was flicked behind by a leaping Alexis Mac Allister to Martinez.
Martinez had enough power behind his header as Ecuador goalkeeper Alexander Dominguez tried to punch the ball to safety.
Lisandro Martinez with his first international goal for Argentina.
MY CENTRE-BACK 🔥🇦🇷pic.twitter.com/JTKKQQsPnC
— UF (@UtdFaithfuls) July 5, 2024
Footage courtesy F24
It was his first goal for Argentina and it came in his 21st appearance for his country. It was a proud moment to help Argentina reach the next round.
Messi missed his penalty kick in a shootout, but Argentina won 4-2 on penalties to advance to the semi-finals.
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