Player Ratings: Martínez Shines in Penalty Shootout as Argentina Triumphs Over Ecuador

Alejandro Moreno provides an in-depth analysis of Argentina’s performance, highlighting Lionel Messi’s contributions as they advance past Ecuador. (2:35)

Historical Context: The Copa América, established in 1916, is the oldest international continental football competition. Argentina, a football powerhouse, has a storied history in the tournament, having won it multiple times. This match, set against the backdrop of America’s Independence Day, adds a layer of historical significance as Argentina continues its quest for continental dominance.

Match Summary: HOUSTON, Texas – On July 4th, Lionel Messi and Argentina aimed to dazzle their fans with a quarterfinal victory. However, it was goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez who emerged as the hero, replicating his World Cup final heroics by making two crucial saves in a penalty shootout. This secured Argentina’s place in the Copa América semifinals on Thursday night.

Messi, returning from a muscle injury, led the defending champions against a resilient Ecuadorian side in a physical encounter. Despite Argentina’s dominance in possession, Ecuador had several opportunities to capitalize.

Ecuador started strong, exploiting Argentina’s defensive vulnerabilities, particularly targeting full-back Nahuel Molina. Martínez made a crucial save early on to keep the score level.

Messi was relatively quiet in the first half, but Argentina gradually adapted to Ecuador’s tactics. A corner from Messi led to the opening goal, with Lisandro Martínez scoring from a flick by Alexis Mac Allister.

The second half saw more drama as Ecuador earned a penalty due to Rodrigo De Paul’s handball. Enner Valencia’s missed penalty allowed Argentina to maintain their lead. However, Ecuador equalized in stoppage time, forcing a penalty shootout.

In the shootout, Emiliano Martínez once again proved his worth, making two vital saves. Despite Messi missing his panenka attempt, Argentina’s other players converted their penalties, securing the win.

Manager Lionel Scaloni will have concerns about his team’s performance, as Ecuador had numerous chances to win in regular time. Argentina now awaits the winner of the Venezuela vs. Canada match in the semifinals.

Manager Rating (1-10):

• Lionel Scaloni, 5: Made late changes and struggled to counter Ecuador’s dynamic midfield. Argentina’s win was more due to individual brilliance than tactical decisions.

Player Ratings (1-10; 10: best. Players introduced after 70 minutes receive no rating):

• GK Emiliano Martínez, 9: Crucial saves in regular time and the shootout. Argentina’s standout player.
• DF Nahuel Molina, 6: Struggled initially but improved as the game progressed.
• DF Cristian Romero, 6: Solid but not exceptional.
• DF Lisandro Martínez, 7: Scored the opening goal, solid defensively.
• DF Nicolás Tagliafico, 6: Focused on defense, made key tackles.
• MF Enzo Fernández, 5: Struggled to make an impact.
• MF Alexis Mac Allister, 7: Assisted the opening goal, solid performance.
• MF Rodrigo De Paul, 6: Inconsistent, conceded a penalty.
• MF Nicolás Gonzalez, 7: High work rate, contributed defensively and offensively.
• FW Lionel Messi, 5: Limited impact, missed a penalty in the shootout.
• FW Lautaro Martínez, 5: Quiet game, replaced in the second half.

Substitutes:

• FW Julián Álvarez, 6: Energetic, converted his penalty.
• DF Nicolás Otamendi, N/A
• MF Giovani Lo Celso, N/A
• DF Gonzalo Montiel, N/A: Converted his penalty.

Summary:

• Emiliano Martínez’s heroics in the penalty shootout secured Argentina’s semifinal spot.
• Messi returned from injury but had a subdued performance.
• Ecuador dominated early but failed to capitalize on opportunities.
• Lisandro Martínez scored the opening goal from a set-piece.
• Ecuador equalized in stoppage time, forcing a penalty shootout.
• Manager Scaloni has tactical concerns despite the win.
• Argentina will face the winner of Venezuela vs. Canada in the semifinals.