Argentina vs Chile : Argentina Secures Quarterfinal Spot with Late Win Over Chile
Argentina became the first nation to secure a spot in the quarterfinals of the 2024 Copa America, thanks to Lautaro Martinez’s late goal that clinched a 1-0 victory against Chile. The defending champions were dominant throughout the match, recording 22 shots.
Match Summary
First Half:
- Early Pressure: Manchester City striker Julian Alvarez and Fiorentina midfielder Nicolas Gonzalez tested Chile goalkeeper Claudio Bravo early, setting the tone for Argentina’s dominance.
- Close Call: Argentina’s best opportunity in the first half came when Lionel Messi hit the post.
- Goalless Half: Despite multiple attempts, Argentina couldn’t break the deadlock by halftime.
Second Half:
- Continued Dominance: Liverpool’s Alexis Mac Allister missed a golden opportunity early in the second half.
- Chile’s Awakening: Chile registered their first shot on target in the 72nd minute through Rodrigo Echeverria, sparking a brief period of Chilean pressure.
- Martinez’s Heroics: With the game heading towards a draw, Inter Milan striker Lautaro Martinez scored in the 88th minute. Reacting quickly to a loose ball after Chile failed to clear Messi’s corner, Martinez ensured Argentina’s victory.
- Lautaro Martinez: Scored the decisive goal, showing his predatory instincts once again.
- Lionel Messi: Was pivotal throughout the match, almost scoring in the first half and providing the assist for Martinez’s goal.
- Emiliano Martinez: Made crucial saves, particularly during Chile’s brief resurgence.
“These matches are always like this, we have to continue in the same way, treating the matches in this way, as they are all going to be complicated,” Martinez told. “Everything was tight, they set up lines of five at times but we are happy we ended up taking the three points, which is what we wanted.”
Standings and Future Matches
Argentina tops Group A and is guaranteed a top-two finish with one match remaining. They will face Peru in their final group game on Sunday (01:00 BST).
Other Group A Action
Canada’s First Copa America Win:
- Canada vs. Peru: Canada achieved their first Copa America win with a 1-0 victory over Peru. Lille striker Jonathan David scored the crucial goal in sweltering conditions in Kansas City.
- Key Moments: Canada’s momentum shifted after Peru defender Miguel Araujo was shown a red card in the 59th minute. David scored with Canada’s first shot on target 15 minutes later.
- Next Match: Canada will end their group campaign against Chile on Sunday (01:00 BST).
Group B News
Mexico Captain Edson Alvarez Out:
- Injury Update: Mexico captain Edson Alvarez confirmed he will miss the rest of the Copa America due to a hamstring injury sustained during their 1-0 win against Jamaica.
- Alvarez’s Statement: “I have made the decision to stay with the team until the end, to support and encourage them, as I always have done. Now it will be my turn off the field,” Alvarez said in a video posted by the national team.
- Club Implications: West Ham will start their 2024-25 Premier League campaign at home against Aston Villa on August 17 without Alvarez.
Argentina’s late win against Chile underscores their determination to defend their Copa America title. With a strong squad and momentum on their side, they look poised for a deep run in the tournament.
