Argentina reach Copa America semifinals, beating Ecuador 4-2 on penalty kicks after 1-1 draw

HOUSTON: Emiliano Martinez saved Argentina’s bid for a second straight Copa America title after the Albiceleste conceded a tying goal to Ecuador in second-half injury time.

Martinez stopped shootout attempts by Angel Mena and Alan Minda, and Argentina advanced to the Copa America semifinals with a 4-2 victory on penalty kicks following a 1-1 draw Thursday night.

“I wasn’t ready to go home,” Martinez said. “This team deserved to advance. They complicated us a lot. They played a great match, very physical. We knew they were one of the top rivals in Copa America.”