Lionel Messi Fumes Over Missed Penalty Despite Argentina’s Thrilling Shoot-out Triumph

Argentina ultimately secured victory, though Lionel Messi experienced a notably rough moment against Ecuador at the Copa America.

In a nail-biting quarter-final clash at the NRG Stadium, Argentina advanced to the semis. The match was intensified by Kevin Rodriguez’s last-minute goal, leading to a 1-1 stalemate following Lisandro Martinez’s initial score.

The iconic Messi took the inaugural penalty but, to everyone’s astonishment, clipped the crossbar with a cheeky chip. Fortunately, his teammate, Emiliano Martinez, played the savior by blocking shots from Angel Mena and Alan Minda, cinching a 4-2 shootout victory for the team.

Post-match, Messi expressed frustration, stating that despite not practicing, he was confident in his technique, having discussed it with teammates ‘Dibu’ Martinez and Geronimo Rulli.

“I aimed for a usual spot. Ironically, the keeper anticipated it, diving correctly, but my touch was too strong,” Messi recounted about his failed attempt.

Coach Lionel Scaloni promptly defended Messi during a press briefing, emphasizing the team’s collective effort over individual performances. “If Messi played well, it was because the team played well. They’re inseparable,” he declared.

Messi, who had missed the final group stage game against Peru due to injury, displayed no signs of rust, according to Scaloni. “He played a solid game. It’s like a chess match out there, and despite what was suggested, his brief pause didn’t dull his skills,” Scaloni added.

Martinez, lauded as the Player of the Match, debunked any notion that luck played a part in his shootout success: “Luck has nothing to do with it. I train relentlessly, striving to uphold national pride because our supporters deserve nothing less,” he avowed.