July 7 – Emiliano Martinez saved three penalties as Argentina beat Colombia in a semi-final shootout to advance to Saturday’s Copa America final against arch-rivals Brazilat the historic Maracana Stadium in Rio de Janeiro.
The Aston Villa keeper denied Davinson Sanchez, Yerry Mina and Edwin Cardona from the spot after the game ended 1-1 after 90 minutes.
Both sides had chances to win in an intense, end-to-end encounter punctuated by 46 fouls and 10 yellow cards.
“Emi is a phenomenon. We trusted him,” said Lionel Messi, who is looking to win his first senior trophy with Argentina. “But it was difficult at times.”
Argentina remained on course for their first major title since the Copa America in 1993 when, ironically, they also beat Colombia on penalties in the semi-final
Brazil beat Peru 1-0 on Monday in the other semi and will be firm favourites even though Argentina are now unbeaten in 19 games.
“This is a matter of luck, today it was mine. Brazil is a great team, the favourite,” Martinez said. “But we have a great coach, we have the best player in the world and we will try to win it.”
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