Copa America 2024: Argentina overcome stubborn Chilean defence with Lautaro Martinez's late winner

Martinez scored 88th minute goal against resolute defence.

Defending champions Argentina built on their winning start to the 2024 Copa America, facing Chile in a challenging Group A match at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford.

Argentina dominated possession from the outset, creating chances against a resolute Chilean defense. Midway through the first half, winger Nicolás González set up Julián Álvarez with a superb cutback from the left flank. Álvarez’s first-time shot lacked power, allowing Chile’s goalkeeper Claudio Bravo to gather the ball easily.

La Albiceleste continued to press for a breakthrough, generating numerous opportunities that Chile’s defensive setup managed to thwart. Argentina nearly broke the deadlock when Messi’s left-footed curler from outside the box struck the right post, narrowly missing a spectacular goal.

Lionel Scaloni’s side intensified their efforts, amassing 15 first-half attempts on Chile’s goal. The match evolved into a tactical battle of attack versus defense.

Argentina maintained their relentless offensive in the second half, repeatedly testing the Chilean backline. Coach Ricardo Gareca had shaped his Chilean side into an ultra-defensive formation to curb Argentina’s constant attacks.

As time waned, Scaloni introduced attacking reinforcements: Angel Di Maria, Lautaro Martinez, and Giovani Lo Celso, aiming to add variety to Argentina’s final third play.

Argentina’s persistence finally paid off in the 88th minute when substitute Lautaro Martinez scored from a corner situation, securing a hard-fought 1-0 lead.

This victory, showcasing Argentina’s champion mentality, marked their second win in Group A and guaranteed their place in the Copa America 2024 knockout rounds

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