The Copa America 2024 match between Argentina and Peru ended with a decisive 2-0 victory for Argentina. The game took place at the iconic Maracana Stadium in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and was witnessed by thousands of passionate football fans from around the world.
Argentina's victory can be attributed to their superior performance on the field. The team displayed excellent teamwork, skillful ball control, and strategic gameplay throughout the match. Lionel Messi, Argentina's star player, scored both goals for his team with his exceptional talent and precision.
Martinez made it 2-0 shortly before full-time, further making his case for a starting spot ahead of Manchester City's Julian Alvarez for the rest of this tournament. A high, bouncing ball went into Peru's penalty area while Martinez jostled with Aldo Corzo for positioning. Martinez may have gotten away with a slight push to put Corzo off balance, get to the ball first and once again float it over Gallese.
After beating Chile in Argentina's second group game, Messi said he felt some discomfort in his hamstring and that he was not 100 percent despite playing all 90 minutes. The 37-year-old is expected to continue to manage the injury and play in the knockout rounds, as Argentina defend their Copa America title.
Argentina entered the match with a Copa America quarterfinal berth already secured. They await the winner of Sunday’s match between Mexico and Ecuador, which will settle second place in Group B.
Argentina’s next match is July 4 at NRG Stadium in Houston.
“We have three wins in three games in the group stage and, well, nothing. Congratulations. Let’s recover and think about what’s to come,” said Martinez, who scored four of Argentina’s five goals in group play.
Martinez is the player most responsible for that, and he was at his best once again on Saturday night. The striker scored both, taking his total to four in three games as he furthered his case for the Golden Boot.
His first came just two minutes after halftime, as he ran onto a fantastic assist from Angel Di Maria. Then, with just a few minutes remaining, Martinez closed out the game, scoring in the 86th minute to ensure that there would be no real late drama in Miami on Thursday night.
It wasn't always pretty, but it was effective from Argentina, who are riding Martinez's hot streak straight into the knockouts. Messi will be back for those, for sure, but, from what we've seen so far, Martinez is ready to be this team's dangerman as the stakes are raised going forward.
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