Argentina's goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez emerged as the hero in a thrilling Copa America semifinal clash against Ecuador, saving two penalties and denying Lionel Messi's blushes as the defending champions secured a 4-2 shootout victory.
The match had been a tense affair, with Argentina taking the lead through Lisandro Martinez's header in the first half. However, Ecuador fought back and equalized in stoppage time through Kevin Rodriguez's header.
In the penalty shootout, Messi surprisingly missed the opening spot-kick, chipping the ball against the bar. But Martinez stepped up to save two penalties from Angel Mena and Alan Minda, giving Argentina the advantage. Nicolas Otamendi then slotted home the decisive fourth kick to send Argentina into the final.
Martinez's heroics were reminiscent of his performance in the 2021 Copa America semifinal against Colombia, where he saved three penalties. He also played a crucial role in Argentina's World Cup triumph in Qatar, saving two penalties in the final against France.
Ecuador were left heartbroken after a match in which they had created enough chances to win. Felix Sanchez's team started brightly and dominated possession, but they were unable to find a way past Martinez.
Argentina will now face the winner of Friday's match between Venezuela and Canada in the Copa America final. They will be looking to defend their title and claim their 16th Copa America crown.
Tags: #CopaAmerica, #Argentina, #Ecuador, #EmilianoMartinez, #LionelMessi
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