Argentina to Copa semi-finals, penalties win over Ecuador

World Champions Argentina reached the semi-final of Copa America after a 4-2 penalty shootout win over Ecuador in the quarterfinals, following a 1-1 draw after 90 minutes. Goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez was the hero, saving two penalties.

Messi missed the opening penalty, chipping against the bar, but thanks to heroics from Martinez, Argentina recovered to win the shoot-out 4-2 and progress into the semi-finals. It was a major scare for the tournament favourites but not for the first time they had their goalkeeper to thank for the relief of victory.