It took longer than Argentina had intended, but they made progress in a close match against Ecuador.

Argentina opened the scoring in the tense contest when Lisandro Martinez knocked home Alexis MacAllister’s headed assist in the first half.

But, just before full time, Kevin Rodriguez equalised for La Tri, forcing a penalty shootout.

In that shootout, Nicolas Otamendi scored the game-winning penalty, propelling La Albiceleste into the semifinal.

They will face the winner of Friday’s match between Venezuela and Canada, which Argentina previously defeated 2-0. Lionel Messi, Argentina’s captain, will aim to add to his decorated trophy cabinet, and this win will bring him one step closer. 

Lionel Messi and Argentina advance to the semifinals of the 2024 Copa America.

La Albiceleste only needed a headed goal from Lisandro Martinez (25).

Ecuador appeared to have momentum over the tournament’s incumbent champions after about 20 minutes.

Argentina’s breakthrough came after a corner kick, when Enzo Fernandez’s shot was stopped and crossed the line.

Messi’s corner was touched on by Alexis MacAllister, who wonderfully played directly behind the Liverpool midfielder into open space.

That area was quickly filled by an incoming Lisandro Martinez, who cleanly headed the ball into the net for Argentina’s 1-0 advantage.