Argentina national team advanced to semi-final after winning Ecuador national team in the penalty shoot-out scoring 4-2 after tied in 90 minutes 1-1 in the Copa America 2024 quarter-final at NRG Stadium, Houston.
The first half saw Argentina pressing for an early lead through the efforts of Lionel Messi and Manchester City striker Julian Alvarez. Ecuador’s defense, led by Felix Torres, worked tirelessly to fend off La Albiceleste’s attacks.
The breakthrough for Argentina came in the 35th minute when a corner from Messi was headed in by Manchester United center-back Lisandro Martinez, giving Argentina a 1-0 lead. Ecuador struggled to respond before halftime, leaving Argentina in control at the break.
In the second half, Ecuador ramped up their pressure on Argentina. Their efforts were almost rewarded when referee Andres Matonte awarded a penalty for a foul in the box. Unfortunately for Ecuador, Enner Valencia’s penalty attempt in the 59th minute hit the post, keeping the score at 1-0.
Just as Argentina’s fans were beginning to celebrate their team’s advancement, Kevin Rodriguez stunned the stadium by equalizing for Ecuador in the 91st minute, forcing the match into a penalty shoot-out.
The shoot-out began with tension as Messi’s first penalty hit the crossbar and bounced out. Ecuador also faced disappointment when Angel Mena’s penalty missed the target.
Argentina then capitalized on the opportunity, successfully converting their remaining four penalties. Ecuador, on the other hand, saw Alan Minda’s penalty saved by Emiliano Martinez, allowing Argentina to secure their place in the semi-finals with a 4-2 victory.
La Albiceleste now await the winner of the Canada vs. Venezuela quarter-final, with their semi-final match scheduled to take place at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey on the morning of July 10.
Credit Photo : AFA
