WATCH: Lionel Messi misses penalty for Argentina in 2024 Copa America
The Albiceleste then recovered to beat Ecuador 4-2…
Argentina skipper Lionel Messi missed his penalty in their shootouts against Ecuador at the 2024 Copa America, although his side won 4-2 regardless. The 37-year-old stepped up to take up his side’s first attempt, but contrived to fire it against the bar while attempting a panenka.
It was an uncharacteristically poor game for Messi, who struggled to break down Ecuador’s obdurate backline, although he did create a few chances from time to time. The shootouts were a great opportunity to redeem himself and give Argentina the lead, but a cropper came there too.
Watch as the former Barcelona ace misses his penalty:
His miss was quickly forgotten as Argentina’s talismanic goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez made two saves, while Julian Alvarez, Alexis Mac Allister, Gonzalo Montiel, and Nicolas Otamendi all scored theirs to give their side a 4-2 win in the shootouts.
Argentina take on Venezuela or Canada
Reigning Copa America champions Argentina moved one step closer to retaining their crown after surviving a late scare from Ecuador. Now in the semi-finals, the Albiceleste take on one of Venezuela or Canada for a place in the finals. For the record, they’ve already beaten Canada in the group stages and boast a 100% win record against them, although Venezuela are in top form and could give them a tough run for their money.