Argentina edges past Ecuador in the penalty shoot to seal the semi-final spot

Lionel Messi is usually the player who carries the Argentina National Team. However, when Argentina faced Ecuador, it was Messi who was carried by his teammates, the World Champions met Ecuador in the 2024 Copa America Quarter Final duel, on Friday, July 5, 2024. In the duel at the NRG Stadium, the defending champions won 4-2 in the penalty shootout and advanced to the semifinals.

Before having to fight until the penalty shootout, Argentina drew 1-1 against Ecuador. Lisandro Martinez's goal in the 35th minute was answered by Kevin Rodriguez in the 90+1 minute. Ideally, the 8-time Balon d'Or winner is a key player for Argentina, however, in this duel against Ecuador, the 37-year-old ace striker seemed to disappear from the field.  Lionel Scaloni used a 4-4-2 formation in the duel against Ecuador. Messi duetted with Lisandro Martinez in the front line, this duet did not play optimally in the first half, although Argentina scored one goal.

Messi played the full game but was not outstanding enough. Quoted from WhoScored, Messi was only able to release one shot. La Pulga also only recorded one key pass, which gave Messi a 5.8 rating for his performance. This is the lowest rating compared to other Argentine players. Rodrigo De Paul also received a 5.8 rating in the duel against Ecuador.

One of Messi's worst moments occurred in the penalty shootout, his panenka technique failed to become a goal. In this match, Messi was carried by his teammates, especially goalkeeper Emi Martinez. Messi was not at the right level in the duel against Ecuador. One of the reasons could be his physical condition, he was doubtful to play against Ecuador due to fitness factors.

Messi suffered an injury in the match against Chile in the group stage, he was absent from the match against Peru. Well, the day before the match against Ecuador, Messi's fitness was still in doubt. "We will decide based on the response we get today. We will try to make him play and if not, we will try to find the best thing for the team," said coach Lionel Scaloni.