Lautaro Martinez came off the bench to score a late winner as Argentina secured a spot in the Copa America quarterfinals with a 1-0 victory over Chile on Tuesday.
Martinez, a 73rd-minute substitute for Julian Alvarez, gave his side the lead in the 88th minute at MetLife Stadium in a move that started with Lionel Messi’s in-swinging corner.
Claudio Bravo kept out Cristian Romero’s overhead kick but the ball spilled to Martinez at the far post and the Inter Milan striker showed his attacking instinct by firing a first-time effort into the top left corner.
Martinez has now netted five times in his past five outings for the Albiceleste.
Chile had several chances to score in the closing stages but Argentina survived to move three points clear at the top of Group A.
“It was a difficult game but every match is like that in the Copa America,” Martinez said afterwards. “I’m happy to have made the most of my opportunity when it came. I have to be ready to contribute when I’m called upon.”
Earlier, Jonathan David struck a late goal as Canada secured a 1-0 victory over Peru in Kansas City. The result marked Canada’s first win over a South American opponent since a 2-0 victory over Colombia in the 2000 CONCACAF Gold Cup final.
