Argentina and Lisandro Martinez capitalized on their dominance with a crucial 1-0 victory over Chile, securing their spot at the top of Group A with a perfect six points from six in the Copa America.
The defending champions controlled the match, registering 22 shots compared to Chile’s three.
Argentina also enjoyed 62% possession but only managed to score a late winner in the 88th minute when striker Lautaro Martinez capitalized on a chaotic scramble in the box.
Manchester United’s steadfast center-back, Lisandro Martinez, completed another 90 minutes, marking his fourth consecutive full match on international duty—a positive sign for his club supporters.
Argentina vs Chile: Copa America highlights
La Albiceleste were defensively dominant, with Martinez’s calm presence playing a significant role in containing Chile with relative ease.
Martinez, nicknamed ‘El Carnicero,’ earned a 7.5 rating from Sofascore for his performance.
Defensively, he was solid, contributing two clearances and one interception.
Wearing the United number six, he also made two tackles, ensuring nothing slipped past him on the night.
Martinez excelled in duels, winning two out of four ground battles and one out of two aerial contests.
As fans of Manchester United well know, Lisandro offers much more than just defensive tenacity.
The Argentine demonstrated his usual composure and effectiveness on the ball, qualities the Old Trafford crowd missed for much of the season and hope to see more of in 2024/2025.
Martinez had 91 touches and completed 73 of his 82 passes, resulting in an 89% success rate.
He didn’t just pass for passing’s sake, showcasing his proactive and progressive play by making one key pass and creating a significant chance.
The defender nearly scored for his country, with a shot that seemed destined for the Chilean net but was blocked.
With Argentina having secured a place in the Copa America quarterfinals, the 26-year-old might get a rest in the next match, yet he rеmains confident of being a key defensive figure in the knockout stages.
The 19-year-old United talent, Alejandro Garnacho, has yet to impress in the tournament. He will be looking to make his mark in the final group stage match against Peru.