Argentina became the first team to secure a spot in the quarter-finals of the 2024 Copa America, thanks to Lautaro Martinez’s late goal that clinched a 1-0 victory against Chile. The defending champions dominated the match at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, registering 22 shots. Argentina’s best chance of the first half came from Lionel
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Argentina became the first team to secure a spot in the quarter-finals of the 2024 Copa America, thanks to Lautaro Martinez’s late goal that clinched a 1-0 victory against Chile.
The defending champions dominated the match at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, registering 22 shots.
Argentina’s best chance of the first half came from Lionel Messi, but the Inter Miami star’s effort was thwarted by the post.
The second half saw continued Argentine pressure, with Liverpool’s Alexis Mac Allister missing a prime opportunity. Chile’s first shot on goal came in the 72nd minute when Rodrigo Echeverria forced a save from Argentina’s Emiliano Martinez.
This attempt seemed to invigorate Chile, with both Echeverria and Marcelino Nunez challenging the Aston Villa goalkeeper as they sought to break their 30-game winless streak against Argentina in Copa America.
The deadlock was broken in the 88th minute by Inter Milan striker Lautaro Martinez. Martinez, who had also scored as a substitute in Argentina’s 2-0 win over Canada, capitalised on a loose ball in the penalty area following a Messi corner.
Argentina lead Group A and is assured of a top-two finish with one match remaining. They will face Peru in their final group game on Sunday.
In the earlier Group A match, Canada won their first Copa America by defeating Peru 1-0. Lille striker Jonathan David scored the decisive goal at Children’s Mercy Park in Kansas City.
Canada overcame the heat and a resilient Peru, who were reduced to ten men after Miguel Araujo’s red card in the 59th minute.
David’s goal came 15 minutes later, marking Canada’s first shot on target. Canada will conclude their group stage campaign against Chile on Sunday.
The post Argentina secure quarter-finals spot in Copa America first appeared on 3News.
