Lionel Messi Acknowledges Moises Caicedo’s Efforts Following Man-Marking Display Against Argentina
On Thursday, defending champions Argentina advanced to the Copa América semifinals by defeating Ecuador 4-2 in a penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw in regular time, thanks to two crucial saves by goalkeeper Emi Martinez.
Chelsea midfielder Moises Caicedo delivered a series of outstanding performances for Ecuador throughout the tournament. Despite their strong showing, Ecuador was eliminated in the quarterfinals.
Argentine star Lionel Messi praised Caicedo for his impressive efforts during the tournament…
“They have a great team with great players and today, especially in the second half, they did well.
There are always battles on the field, but afterwards everything was fine.
“It makes me sad that a great player ended up sad (Moisés Caicedo) showing that he gave everything on the field…” Messi Added
The match went to penalties after Lisandro Martínez’s opener for Argentina was canceled out by Kevin Rodríguez in stoppage time. There is no extra time in Copa América knockout games apart from the final.
In the shootout, Lionel Messi clipped the crossbar with Argentina’s first effort, but Martinez saved from Ángel Mena and Alan Minda as the defending champions moved into a semifinal matchup against either Venezuela or Canada.
