Argentina defeated Ecuador in the 2024 Copa America quarterfinal on Thursday night, but Argentina captain Lionel Messi missed the opening kick of the penalty shootout.
The game ended 1-1 after 120 minutes.
Lisandro Martinez had opened the scoring for Albiceleste in the first half, before Kevin Rodriguez equalized in stoppage time.
Messi hit the bar with a failed panenka attempt and was consoled by the Ecuadorian goalkeeper, Alexander Dominguez, in what was a shocking start to the shootout.
However, Emi Martinez saved Messi’s blushes, as he saved twice to seal a 4-2 win and qualification into the semi-finals.
They will face the winner between Venezuela and Canada on Tuesday evening.
Written By Ifreke Inyang