It was a nervy penalty shootout win over Ecuador that sealed Argentina’s spot in the Copa America 2024 semifinals Friday night. Goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez was the unlikely hero of the drama in front of the raucous 70,000 crowd at NRG Stadium.

The regular game ended 1-1 after 90 minutes of nervy football. But, the Argentine stopper Martinez would steal the headlines in the shootout. The tension was palpable as Lionel Messi’s opening penalty cannoned onto the crossbar, but Martinez kept his cool. He saved two pivotal Ecuadorian efforts—enough to send La Albiceleste into the final four.

This victory showed Argentina’s importance in their quest for another Copa America crown. The Aston Villa shot-stopper has quietly turned into a rock at the back for Argentina, and his heroics on Friday night sent a strong message to their remaining opponents.