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Last-Gasp Lautaro Seals Argentina’s Copa America Q’final Berth


Argentina secured their place in the Copa America quarterfinals in a match of tension and drama. The 1-0 victory over Chile, held at the MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, marked Argentina’s second consecutive win, placing them at the top of Group A with a perfect record of 6 points.

The match was on a knife’s edge until Lautaro Martinez stepped up in the dying moments. With only two minutes remaining, the striker’s powerful shot found the back of the net, sending his team and fans into a frenzy and shattering Chilean hopes.

This victory keeps Argentina unbeaten in the competition. They had a great start to their campaign with a clinical 2-0 win over Canada on Tuesday. Chile’s tournament could have been more inspiring. Following the opening draw with Peru, Wednesday’s defeat leaves them in a precarious third place with just one point.

That fact—to be topped by Canada recording their first tournament win against Peru 1-0—keeps group standings from being ultimately settled. Chile and Peru will fight for that crucial third-place qualification that gives a route to the knockout stages.