Argentina reaches Copa America semifinals, beating Ecuador 4-2 on penalty kicks after 1-1 draw
Defending champion Argentina advanced to the Copa America semifinals, beating Ecuador 4-2 on penalty kicks following a 1-1 draw after conceding a tying goal in second-half injury time
By AP News
Published - Jul 05, 2024, 01:24 AM ET
Last Updated - Jul 05, 2024, 01:24 AM EDT
HOUSTON (AP) — Lionel Messi stepped up to take Argentina's first penalty kick in a Copa America shootout against Ecuador, just like he did in the 2022 World Cup final victory over France.
Only this time, Messi hit the crossbar, jeopardizing a trip to the semifinals.
“I was pretty upset," he said, “but at the same time I was secure.”
He had confidence in goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez, who saved Argentina’s bid for a second straight Copa America title,
