A Lisandro Martinez header had put world champions Argentina 1-0 up.
GOALKEEPER EMILIANO MARTINEZ was the hero, saving two penalties and Lionel Messi ’s blushes as holders Argentina defeated Ecuador in a penalty shoot-out to book their place in the Copa America semi-finals last night.
He pulled off superb diving saves to deny Angel Mena and Alan Minda and get his team in front before Nicolas Otamendi slotted home the decisive fourth kick. Ecuador were left crestfallen after a match in which they had created enough opportunities to have won the game. Argentina gradually got a foothold in the game but it was not until the 28th minute that they had their first opening when Enzo Fernandez headed wide a Nahuel Molina cross from the right.
Argentina's goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez, left, and Lisandro Martinez celebrate after Ecuador's Enner Valencia missed a penalty. Alamy Stock Photo Alamy Stock Photo
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