(VIDEO) Copa América 2024 Highlights: Argentina vs Ecuador
Argentina defeated Ecuador in penalties, with "Dibu" Martínez as the hero after Messi missed the first Argentine penalty.
In the first half, Argentina faced a surprising Ecuadorian team that looked better at times, led by Kendry Páez and Sarmiento. However, the Albiceleste took the lead thanks to a great corner kick by Messi, which Alexis Mac Allister redirected for Lisandro Martínez to score in the 34th minute.
In the second half, "Dibu" Martínez saved Argentina multiple times, just like in the World Cup final. Ecuador missed a big opportunity to tie when Enner Valencia failed to score from the penalty spot.
However, in the last moments, Kevin Rodríguez equalized in the 91st minute, sending the match to penalties. Despite Messi's miss, Argentina won thanks to Emiliano Martínez's outstanding performance.