Argentina advanced to the semi-finals of the Copa America after defeating Ecuador 4-2 on penalties following a 1-1 draw in regulation time. Lisandro Martinez opened the scoring for Argentina, but Kevin Rodriguez equalized for Ecuador in stoppage time, forcing the match into a penalty shootout. Emi Martinez, Argentina's goalkeeper, emerged as the hero by saving two penalties during the shootout.
The match saw Lionel Messi return to action despite concerns over a hamstring injury, and he set a new record for the most minutes played in the history of the Copa America. Argentina initially dominated possession, but Ecuador had their moments, with Jeremy Sarmiento testing Martinez early on.
Argentina took the lead in the 35th minute when Alexis Mac Allister's header found Lisandro Martinez, who scored his first international goal. Ecuador fought back in the second half and was awarded a penalty in the 60th minute after a handball by Rodrigo De Paul. Enner Valencia stepped up but hit the post, and Ecuador couldn't convert the rebound.
In stoppage time, Ecuador managed to equalize through Kevin Rodriguez's header, setting up the dramatic shootout. Despite Messi hitting the crossbar with Argentina's first penalty, Martinez's saves and Nicolas Otamendi's decisive spot-kick secured Argentina's place in the semi-finals. They will face either Venezuela or Canada in the next round.
