Argentina Edges Past Ecuador in Dramatic Penalty Shootout to Reach Copa America Semifinals

Defending champion Argentina advanced to the Copa America semifinals by defeating Ecuador 4-2 on penalty kicks after a 1-1 draw. Key players included Emiliano Martínez, Lionel Messi, and Nicolás Otamendi. Argentina will face Venezuela or Canada in the semifinals as they aim for a record Copa America title.

Defending champions Argentina clinched a spot in the Copa America semifinals by edging out Ecuador 4-2 in a dramatic penalty shootout, following a 1-1 draw. Key moments included Emiliano Martínez saving two penalty kicks and Nicolás Otamendi scoring the decisive spot kick.

Liisandro Martínez had given the Albiceleste a 35th-minute lead, only for Kevin Rodríguez to equalize in second-half injury time. Ecuador's Enner Valencia missed a crucial penalty in the 62nd minute.

Argentina, aiming for a record Copa America title, advanced to the semifinals for the fifth consecutive tournament and will face either Venezuela or Canada. Lionel Messi, returning from injury, missed his penalty but received a warm ovation from fans.