Argentina 2-0 Peru: Player ratings as Lautaro Martinez double completes 100% win record in the group stages | 2024 Copa America
Argentina beat Peru 2-0 in their final group fixture of the 2024 Copa America to complete a 100% win record. Lautaro Martinez was at the double for the holders as Lionel Messi wasn't missed.
The skipper missed the clash after experiencing discomfort in his thigh earlier this week. However, Argentina's progression to the quarter-finals was already assured as the holders had won both their group clashes coming into the Hard Rock Stadium on Saturday (June 29).
It took Argentina until the 47th minute to break down Los Incas, as Martinez fired them in front with a delicate lob over Peru's goalkeeper Pedro Gallese. A while later, Leandro Paredes had the chance to double their advantage from the spot but smashed his effort against the post.
Argentina kept pushing for a second goal to consolidate their victory and Martinez popped up with exactly that with only four minutes of normal time left, making another finish beyond Gallese after brilliantly evading two markers.
That wrapped up their group stages in style, as the defending champions now look forward to the last-8, where they face the runners-up of Group B. Peru finished at the bottom of Group A with just one point, marking their earliest exit from the competition since 1995.
Here are the player ratings for Argentina:
Emiliano Martinez - 7/10
With Peru barely ever threatening, Martinez had a rather comfortable outing in goal, a clean sheet to boot too.
Gonzalo Montiel - 7.5/10
The Sevilla full-back got forward well and stretched Peru's defense. He even laid a cross that led to Argentina's penalty in the second half.
German Pezzella - 7/10
A reliable figure in defense, Pezzella held the fort well and guarded his goal with authority. He made four clearances and one tackle.
Nicolas Otamendi - 7.5/10
The mortar to Pezzella's brick, Otamendi stepped up whenever he sensed danger and moped up everything in front of him.
Nicolas Tagliafico - 7.5/10
Full of flair and finesse, Tagliafico was a menace on the left. He completed 91% of his passes (69/76) and laid three key passes too. The left-back even had the ball in the back of the net in the second half but it was ruled out.
Giovani Lo Celso - 6.5/10
Lo Celso made a good impact on both ends of the field. He contributed offensively, even forcing Peruvian goalkeeper Pedro Gallese into a save, while also coming up trumps in the defense.
Leandro Paredes - 7/10
A good performance in midfield turned sour by his penalty miss. He had also seen a goal-bound attempt from a free-kick saved in the first half.
Exequiel Palacios - 7.5/10
The Bayer Leverkusen star was the battering ram that broke down Peru every time they pushed forward. His ball-winning capabilities were second to none, winning seven of his eight ground duels.
Angel Di Maria - 8/10
The Benfica star was once again the creative inspiration for his side. He laid six crosses and one key pass while also setting up Martinez for his first goal.
Lautaro Martinez - 9.5/10
He continued his hot run of form by netting both of Argentina's goals on the night, taking his tally to four for the championship.
Alejandro Garnacho - 6.5/10
The Manchester United star finally got his chance to play for Argentina at the 2024 Copa America, and while there were flashes of brilliance, Garnacho ultimately fell short of expectations. His end product still needs improvement.
Substitutes
Nicolas Gonzalez - 6/10
He didn't come into possession much and was left chasing shadows for most of the game.
Enzo Fernandez - 6/10
Excellent on the ball and solid off it.
Valentin Carboni - 5/10
Argentine fans might have been delighted to see the youngster, though his contributions were minimal. Just six touches on the ball in 13 minutes.
Guido Rodriguez - 6.5/10
He passed the ball around well, demonstrating his impeccable accuracy.
Lucas Quarta - 6/10
The 19-year-old came on to see off the last few minutes of the game.