Messi describes Argentine champion Martinez as a ‘phenomenon’ after penalty shootouts have been halted within the Copa America semi-final

Argentina team-mate Lionel Messi described Emiliano Martinez as a “phenomenon” after his 3 saves on consequences to protected a Copa America semi-final win over Colombia on Tuesday.

The 28-year-old earned his world debut remaining month after a outstanding season with Aston Villa, and is now a Albiceleste champion.

Colombia pressured out a penalty shootout with a 61st minute objective via Luis Diaz who canceled out an early shot with the assistance of Messi from Lautaro Martinez, however the Argentina goalkeeper secured a spot within the last towards Brazil on Saturday.

What used to be mentioned?

“We have Emmy and she is a phenomenon,” mentioned Messi, who transformed from the penalty spot within the penalty shootout. “We trusted him. We achieved the goal of being able to play all the matches and now we are going to the final.”

Coach Lionel Scaloni added that Martinez’s affect prolonged past penalty kicks.

“We are very pleased with Emiliano’s performance, not only because of the sanctions, but also because of the security he transmits,” he mentioned. “The group of defenders is always supported and we love that.”

Reactions to the penalty shootout