Emiliano Martinez heroics help Argentina defeat Ecuador 4-2 (pens) in Copa America 2024 QF

Emiliano Martinez once again came up clutch for Argentina as they defeated Ecuador 4-2 on penalties after playing out a 1-1 draw over 90 minutes.

The defending champions have sealed their spot in the semifinals after a tense game, during which they conceded their first goal at this year’s Copa America.

Argentina narrowly defeat Ecuador for Copa America semifinal spot

Four penalty shootouts faced for Argentina.

Four won.

The legend of Dibu Martínez continues to grow 🧱 pic.twitter.com/mxhrgZTX4y

— B/R Football (@brfootball) July 5, 2024

Lisandro Martinez opened the scoring in the 35th minute after a corner to break the deadlock. And at this point, it would have been easy to assume that the game would tilt in Argentina’s favour for the remainder of the time.

But, Ecuador found their way back into the game and had their best chance through a penalty near the hour mark. Rodrigo De Paul thanked his stars as Enner Valencia hit the post from the spot as the defending champions maintained their lead.

A late goal from Kevin Rodriguez at the very end of the game sent it to penalties. And the biggest surprise of the night followed as Lionel Messi failed to convert his spot kick in the first slot of the shootout.

However, Martinez won it for Argentina by saving Angel Mena and Alan Minda’s shot to add yet another shootout win to his name.