(Houston) Defending champion Argentina advanced to the semifinals of the Copa América with a 4-2 penalty shootout victory after a 1-1 draw with Ecuador on Thursday.
Argentina will now face either Canada or Venezuela, who will meet on Friday. Playing in their fifth consecutive Copa America semi-final, Argentina is looking to win a third major title in a row.
Lionel Messi was the first player sent to the penalty spot for Argentina, but his shot hit the crossbar. His goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez made two saves, however, and Nicolas Otamendi put the game to bed by beating Alexander Dominguez.
Lisandro Martinez gave Argentina the lead with a goal in the 35th minute.e minute, but Kevin Rodriguez equalized in the first minute of second-half stoppage time. Ecuadorian Enner Valencia placed a penalty shot on the post in the 62nde minute after Rodrigo De Paul had touched the ball with his hand.