Argentina is into the semi-finals after defeating Ecuador 4-2 in the Copa America 2024 quarterfinals at NRG Stadium in Houston, US. But star player Lionel Messi left fans dumbfounded when he missed a crucial penalty kick with a Panenka attempt clipping the crossbar.
Argentina’s Liisandro Martinez put the team into the lead with a 35th minute goal but it was quickly equalized by Ecuador’s Kevin Rodriguez in the first minute of second-half stoppage time. The match went into a penalty shootout after Argentina and Ecuador failed to break the 1-1 tie after 90 minutes plus stoppage time. Argentine goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez emerged as the hero of the match, saving Ecuador’s two penalty kicks.
The defending champion steadily rose with Julian Alavarez and Alexis Mac Allister for netting the penalty kicks, a third from Gonzalo Montiel. And Ecuador got its second goal from Jordy Caicedo.
Lionel Messi Leg Injury Concern for Argentina Copa America 2024
Captain Lionel Messi’s leg injury has been worrisome for team Argentina and is likely to be a challenge in the semi-final. Argentina is favored to win America’s biggest soccer tournament – Copa America 2024. After missing the group match against Peru, Messi played the quarterfinal against Ecuador and now the team has advanced into the semi-finals.
Also Read: Copa America 2024 Quarter Finals Fixtures: Teams, Full List of Matches, Venues and Time In IST
Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni had earlier expressed concern saying there are ramifications for the team when Messi is not able to play. He said they would try to find the best solution for the team if their star player is unable to play. And now Argentina is gearing up for the Copa America 2024 semi-final.
