The Aston Villa goalkeeper Emi Martinez was crucial as Argentina secured their place in the Copa America semi-finals with a 4-2 victory on penalties over Ecuador. Following a 1-1 draw in regular time, the match proceeded to penalties, during which Martinez made significant saves and helped his team secure the win. Despite Lionel Messi missing his penalty, Martinez’s saves from Angel Mena and Alan Minda were pivotal. Manchester City’s Julian Alvarez and Liverpool’s Alexis Mac Allister found the net for Argentina, with former Manchester City defender Nicolas Otamendi converting the winning penalty. Ecuador’s hopes were kept alive briefly by John Yeboah, but they ultimately fell short.
Ecuador managed to force penalties with an injury-time equaliser, but Argentina had initially taken the lead through a goal by Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez. The World Cup holders were not at their best in Houston, and Ecuador missed a chance to level the score when Enner Valencia hit the post from the penalty spot. Martinez notably celebrated after his saves in the shootout, acknowledging the support of the Argentine crowd.
Martinez’s impressive penalty statistics for Argentina, having faced 24 penalties and conceded just 12 with nine saves and three off-target misses, underscore his significant contribution to the team’s success. Argentina, who have clinched the Copa America title 15 times, will now await their opponents in the semi-finals, which will be either Canada or Venezuela.
In the aftermath of the defeat, Ecuador decided to part ways with manager Felix Sanchez, despite him having three years remaining on his contract. The Ecuadorian Football Federation expressed gratitude to Felix and his coaching staff for their efforts and professionalism, while wishing them success in their future endeavors.
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