Argentina Advances to Copa America Quarter-Finals.
Argentina secured their place in the quarter-finals of the 2024 Copa America with a dramatic late victory over Chile, courtesy of a goal from Lautaro Martinez in the dying minutes.
Playing at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, the defending champions showcased their dominance with a commanding 22 shots throughout the match. Early on, Manchester City's Julian Alvarez and Fiorentina's Nicolas Gonzalez tested Chilean goalkeeper Claudio Bravo, setting the pace for the encounter.
Lionel Messi came close to breaking the deadlock in the first half, but the Inter Miami star's effort struck the post. Despite their persistent pressure, Argentina couldn’t find the back of the net in the opening 45 minutes.
After halftime, Argentina continued their aggressive play. Liverpool's Alexis Mac Allister missed a golden opportunity to score, maintaining the goalless stalemate. Chile managed their first shot on goal only in the 72nd minute, with Rodrigo Echeverria forcing a save from Argentina’s Emiliano Martinez.
This attempt seemed to energize Chile, as both Echeverria and Marcelino Nunez forced further saves from Martinez, trying to end their 30-game winless streak against Argentina in Copa America history.
As the match seemed destined for a draw, Inter Milan's Lautaro Martinez capitalized on a defensive error following a Lionel Messi corner, scoring the decisive goal in the 88th minute. Martinez, who had also scored as a substitute in Argentina's recent win against Canada, pounced on a loose ball in the crowded penalty area.
Reflecting on the victory, Martinez told TyC Sports, "These matches are always tough. We have to keep treating each game with the same intensity because they are all going to be challenging. Despite their defensive setup, we are happy to secure the three points."
With this win, Argentina sits atop Group A and is assured a top-two finish with a game to spare. They will conclude their group stage against Peru on Sunday (01:00 BST).
Canada's Historic First Copa America Victory
In an earlier Group A match, Canada achieved their maiden Copa America win by defeating Peru 1-0. Lille's Jonathan David scored the pivotal goal, marking Canada's first since Jesse Marsch took over as manager in May.
The game, played in the intense heat of 38°C at Children's Mercy Park in Kansas City, saw assistant referee Humberto Panjoj replaced after collapsing late in the first half.
Canada’s goalkeeper Maxime Crepeau played a crucial role, saving a shot from Piero Quispe and seeing a goal from Peru's Gianluca Lapadula disallowed for offside. The turning point came in the 59th minute when Peru's Miguel Araujo received a red card for a harsh tackle on Jacob Shaffelburg. Taking advantage of their numerical superiority, Canada scored their winning goal 15 minutes later, with David converting their first shot on target.
Canada will finish their group matches against Chile on Sunday (01:00 BST).
Mexico's Edson Alvarez to Miss Rest of Copa America
In a setback for Mexico, captain Edson Alvarez has been ruled out for the rest of the Copa America due to a hamstring injury sustained during their 1-0 victory over Jamaica. The West Ham midfielder exited the match 30 minutes in and has decided to stay with the team to support his teammates during his recovery.
"I have decided to stay with the team until the end to support and encourage them, just as I always have. Now, my role will be off the field," Alvarez shared in a video posted by the national team. "This will also aid my rehabilitation and help me return as soon as possible."
West Ham's Premier League season opener against Aston Villa is scheduled for August 17, 2024.
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