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Copa America 2024: Messi Misses Penalty as Argentina Edges Out Ecuador |
In a dramatic Copa America quarter-final on Thursday night, Argentina's captain Lionel Messi missed the opening penalty in a shoot-out, but his team still managed to eliminate Ecuador.
The match ended in a 1-1 draw after regular time. Lisandro Martinez put Argentina ahead in the first half, but Kevin Rodriguez equalized for Ecuador in stoppage time.
Messi's attempt at a panenka hit the crossbar, leading to a surprising start to the shootout. Ecuadorian goalkeeper Alexander Dominguez consoled Messi after the miss.
Despite the setback, Emi Martinez came to the rescue, making two crucial saves to secure a 4-2 victory for Argentina and a spot in the semi-finals.
Argentina will now face the winner of the Venezuela vs. Canada match on Tuesday evening.
