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It wasn’t a pretty process, but Lionel Messi and Argentina managed to pick up a win against a fierce rival.
Eight years have passed since Argentina faced Chile at the same location and in the same competition. Wednesday (26/6) morning WIB, the two South American giants met again at the MetLife Stadium on the outskirts of New York City, a historical site that witnessed one of Lionel Messi’s heartbreaks. On that night, eight years ago, Messi decided to retire (although it turned out to be only temporary) from the national team. A nadir in his legendary career.
But this time, Messi and Argentina managed to break the curse that has haunted them since the 2016 Copa America. The Albiceleste may have won the Copa America and the World Cup, but make no mistake, the grudge is still there. Eight years after Messi’s heartbreak at the Copa America, Argentina advanced to the knockout stages thanks to a narrow victory.
In front of more than 81,000 eyes, Argentina picked up the second three points in the second match, silencing Chile with a late goal. There are no beautiful things. Physical contact is everywhere, dirty, and sometimes ugly. But Argentina surviveas they are survive for the last three years.
This time it wasn’t Messi who was the hero. Lautaro Martinez was the one who deserved the title, coming on as a substitute to save Argentina. For 88 minutes, Lionel Scaloni’s men failed to break down Chile’s resilient defense. But The Red couldn’t stop the Inter Milan bomber.
This victory required a little luck, a corner kick bounced off Martinez’s feet at the far post. But in a game this tight, a little luck is enough. Argentina in the past was not always so lucky, but now their steps seem to be accompanied by the Goddess Fortuna.
Next up is the final group stage match against Peru, but Argentina has already secured a ticket to the knockout phase. The defending champion’s performance cannot be said to be perfect at all, but they won’t bother too much, because the result is still 100 percent perfect.
GOAL assessing the ratings of Argentina’s players in the match against Chile in the Copa America…
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