(Group A Copa America 2024) Defending champion Argentina had a difficult match against their fateful opponent Chile.
Despite being underestimated, Chile entered the game without any hesitation. Coach Ricardo Gareca’s students are very diligent in competing and closely following Argentina’s number 1 star, Lionel Messi . It wasn’t until the 22nd minute that the defending champion created the first notable attack situation. Alvarez finished one touch in the penalty area and was hugged by goalkeeper Bravo after Gonzalez’s cross.
Faced with Chile’s massive defense, Argentina’s stars were forced to use long-range shooting. In the 36th minute, Messi almost created a masterpiece with a very strong long-range shot that unfortunately licked the outside edge of the post. That was also the most notable situation in the first half.
After halftime, Argentina still maintained pressure on Chile’s goal. In the 61st minute, Gonzalez dribbled the ball on the left wing and then shot a left-handed shot that lightly touched goalkeeper Bravo’s fingertips before bouncing off the crossbar. It wasn’t until the 72nd minute that Chile had its first notable shot. Pulgar finished very hard from the second line and only the excellence of goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez helped Argentina escape defeat.
When many people were starting to think about a draw, Argentina suddenly found the right goal at the last minute. From a chaotic situation in the penalty area, substitute striker Lautaro Martinez quickly scored a shot into Chile’s net. After consulting VAR, the referee recognized the goal for the defending world champions.
With a dramatic victory, Argentina monopolized the top spot in Group A with 6 absolute points. Coach Lionel Scaloni’s team officially won a ticket to the Copa America quarter-finals one match early.
Final score: Chile 0-1 Argentina (First half: 0-0)
Scored
Argentina: Lautaro Martinez 88′
Starting lineup
Chile: Bravo, Isla, Lichnovsky, Diaz, Suazo, Pulgar, Echeverria, Davila, Sanchez, Osorio, Vargas
Argentina: Emiliano Martinez, Molina, Romero, Lisandro Martinez, Tagliafico, De Paul, Enzo, Mac Allister, Gonzalez, Messi, Alvarez
