(East Rutherford) Argentina, defending champion, validated its ticket to the quarter-finals of the Copa America by beating Chile (1-0), Tuesday evening during the 2nd day of the group stage, at East Rutherford (United States).
A stone’s throw from New York, in a packed MetLife Stadium (82,000 seats) and under the deafening noise of Argentine supporters, the Albiceleste has waited a long time to realize its constant domination.
The liberating goal arrived in the 88th minute, from a Lionel Messi corner pushed back into the area and volleyed back by Inter Milan striker Lautaro Martinez.
The day after his 37th birthday, celebrated Monday by thousands of supporters in the famous New York Times Square, Leo Messi capsized the stadium with a long shot that hit the post (36th), several dribbles and passes inspired.
In the 2nd half, Nicolas Gonzalez came close to opening the scoring (62nd), but his shot was deflected onto the crossbar by veteran Chilean goalkeeper Claudio Bravo, 41, who saved his team several times before she bowed.
With six points from two matches, Argentina is assured of going to the quarter-finals, before the third day where they will face Peru in Miami.
