Argentina goalkeeper Emi Martinez once again proved to be the hero in a penalty shootout, saving Lionel Messi’s blushes during a thrilling quarter-final match against Ecuador in the ongoing Copa America tournament.

The match ended with a 4-2 victory for Argentina on penalties, with Martinez making two crucial saves during the shootout after a 1-1 draw in regular time.

Martinez’s heroic performance not only saved Messi from embarrassment after missing his penalty but also secured Argentina’s spot in the semifinals.

Despite Messi hitting the crossbar with Argentina’s first penalty, Martinez’s saves from Angel Mena and Alan Minda ensured their progression. Argentina, the defending champions, will now face either Venezuela or Canada in the next round.

The match saw Argentina dominating possession early on, but Ecuador had the first chance when Jeremy Sarmiento forced Martinez into a save.

However, Argentina took the lead in the 35th minute when Alexis Mac Allister’s header found Martinez, who scored his first international goal.

Ecuador equalized from a penalty in the second half, awarded for a handball by Rodrigo De Paul.

“In penalties, the team has blind confidence in its goalkeeper and that is fundamental,” Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni said.

“Even after Leo’s miss and with all that means for the team, it’s very important that our goalkeeper came up clutch.

“I think it’s not enjoyable when you win in this way. Of course, we are happy, but I didn’t enjoy this victory.”

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