Lautaro Martinez Double Secures Argentina's Quarter-Final Spot in Copa America

Miami Gardens, FL, June 24, 2024: Argentina’s Lautaro Martinez netted two goals, leading the reigning Copa America champions to a 2-0 victory over Peru. This win solidified Argentina’s position at the top of Group A, securing their place in the quarter-finals. Lionel Messi, nursing a minor injury, watched from the bench as his team dominated the match.

Argentina, already qualified for the knockouts, showed no signs of slowing down. Martinez’s first goal came early in the second half, a clinical finish assisted by Angel Di Maria. He sealed the victory with a second goal late in the game, skillfully chipping the ball over the Peruvian goalkeeper.

Despite Messi’s absence, the Argentines displayed their depth and resilience. Assistant coach Walter Samuel, standing in for the suspended Lionel Scaloni, expressed confidence in the team’s ability to perform without their star player.

Argentina now awaits the runner-up from Group B, with their next match scheduled for July 4th in Houston. Meanwhile, Canada also secured their place in the knockout stage with a goalless draw against Chile.

Key Moments:

47th minute: Martinez scores his first goal, assisted by Di Maria.
72nd minute: Leandro Paredes misses a penalty for Argentina.
86th minute: Martinez scores his second goal, securing the win for Argentina.

Additional Highlights:

Messi’s injury update: He remains day-to-day with a right groin strain.
Argentina’s next opponent: The runner-up from Group B, to be determined on Sunday.
Other Copa America developments: Canada qualifies for the knockout stage with a draw against Chile.

This victory marks Argentina’s third consecutive win in the Copa America group stage. With Messi’s potential return and a strong team performance, Argentina remains a favorite to defend their title.

Argentina’s head coach, Lionel Scaloni, missed the game due to a one-game suspension for his team’s delayed return to the field in previous matches. Assistant coach Walter Samuel filled in for Scaloni, expressing satisfaction with the team’s performance and the opportunity to give playing time to those who had been training hard.

With the win, Argentina and Group A runner-up Canada advance to the knockout rounds. They will face the second-place team from Group B in the quarterfinals.

The game was tied at halftime, with Peru goalkeeper Pedro Gallese making crucial saves to keep his team in the game. However, Martinez scored twice in the second half, securing the win for Argentina.

Martinez, who has scored in all three Copa America games, shared his joy after overcoming an ankle injury during the Qatar World Cup. He emphasized the hard work he put in to recover and enjoy this tournament with his family.

The loss eliminated Peru from the tournament, with coach Jorge Fossati acknowledging the impact of Argentina’s quality and his team’s fatigue after the previous game against Canada.

Argentina is now seeking its third major title after winning the 2021 Copa America and the 2022 World Cup.