Lautaro Martinez scored twice, leading Argentina to a 2-0 victory over Peru in their final Copa America group stage match on Saturday night, despite the absence of the injured Lionel Messi.
In the 46th minute, Angel Di Maria’s well-placed through ball set up Martinez’s goal. Afterward, Martinez celebrated with his teammates before embracing Messi, who was by Argentina’s bench.
Martinez secured Argentina’s second goal in the 86th minute, bringing his total to a tournament-leading four goals.
Messi, sidelined due to a leg injury sustained during Argentina’s 1-0 win over Chile on Tuesday, missed the game.
This victory had already ensured Argentina’s spot in the quarterfinals. Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni was also absent, serving a suspension due to his team’s delayed second-half starts in their previous Copa matches.
On Saturday, the Albiceleste emerged for the second half just moments before Peru. With nine changes in the starting lineup, Argentina dominated possession with 74% for the third consecutive match and had six shots on goal, though they were held scoreless in the first half for the third straight game.
The match took place at Hard Rock Stadium, home to the Miami Dolphins, with around 64,000 fans in attendance.
The stadium will also host the final on July 14. The crowd largely supported Argentina, many donning various versions of Messi’s No. 10 jersey.
In another Group A match, Canada and Chile played to a scoreless draw in Orlando, Florida, allowing Canada to advance to the quarterfinals as well.
Argentina will discover its opponent for the knockout stage after Group B concludes on Sunday.
Group leader Venezuela will face Jamaica in Austin, Texas, while second-place Ecuador will play Mexico in Glendale, Arizona.
Nicolas Tagliafico seemingly scored for Argentina in the 55th minute, tapping in the ball at the back post.
However, the officials disallowed the goal, ruling that goaltender Pedro Gallese, who made four saves, was obstructed.
Argentina had another opportunity when awarded a penalty for a handball in the box by Jesus Castillo. Leandro Paredes struck the ball into the right post, leaving the score at 1-0.
Goaltender Emiliano Martinez made one save during the match.
Peru failed to score for the third game in the tournament and has been goalless in 11 of its last 14 matches.
After a scoreless draw against Chile in their Copa America opener, Peru lost 1-0 to Canada. The team had reached the semifinals in 2021 but was defeated by Brazil.
