Argentina ignored Lionel Messi’s injury absence and maintained their perfect start to the Copa América on Saturday with a 2-0 victory over Peru in Miami. Lautaro Martinez scored twice at the Hard Rock Stadium to seal the victory that ensured Argentina progressed to the quarter-finals as winners of Group A. With Messi sidelined after complaining of a sore right hamstring and coach Lionel Scaloni complying suspension of one game, Argentina made nine changes to their starting eleven at the Hard Rock Stadium.
But despite the seemingly improvised line-up, Argentina were always in control against a disappointing Peruvian team, who managed just one shot on goal in a one-sided encounter.
Martinez’s first goal came just after half-time. A sublime pass from Angel Di Maria released the Inter Milan striker, who calmly finished deftly past Peruvian goalkeeper Pedro Gallese.
Argentina had the chance to extend their lead in the 72nd minute after Jesus Castillo maneuvered into the box to concede a penalty.
But Leandro Paredes hit the ensuing penalty kick against the post to leave the score at 1-0.
Martinez then scored the second in the 86th minute, latching on to a long forward pass before finishing past Gallese.
Replays indicated that Martinez appeared to push defender Aldo Corzo in the build-up, but referee Cesar Ramos waved off Peru’s protest and the goal stood.
“It was difficult in the first half because they defended well, but the first goal opened the game,” Martinez said afterwards. “There’s a lot more coming from us.”
Martinez has now scored in four consecutive matches for Argentina and is enjoying his winning streak.
“Every time I wear this jersey, every practice, every meal, every team talk, I enjoy it,” Martinez said.
Argentina will now face the runner-up of Group B in the quarter-finals, in Houston, next Thursday, probably Ecuador or Mexico.
In Saturday’s other Group A game, Canada drew 0-0 with Chile, the 2015 and 2016 Copa América champions, in Orlando, which was enough to take the Canadians to the round of 16.
Chile needed a win to advance past the Canadians into the round of 16, but were left with a mountain to climb early in the game when Gabriel Suazo was sent off for a second yellow card in the 27th minute.
“It took a lot of work – it’s our first time in this competition and it’s not easy,” Canada captain Alphonso Davies said of his team’s advancement to the round of 16.
“There are a lot of good teams in this competition and a lot of good players. But we stuck to our plan and played well. We showed a lot of fight. We had to show our teeth at times, but overall we did well.”
Canada will face the winners of Group B in the quarterfinals.
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