Breaking: Enner Valencia misses penalty as Ecuador continue to trail Argentina in Copa America quarter-final

Argentina held onto their 1-0 lead over Ecuador in the quarter-finals of Copa America 2024 (July 4) after Enner Valencia missed an opportunity to tie the game from the spot. The former West Ham United and Everton man failed to score after La Tri were given a penalty in the 62nd minute.

Moises Caicedo launched an inswinging ball from a corner that caught Albiceleste midfielder Rodrigo de Paul on the arm. Valencia, Ecuador's all-time leading scorer, stepped up but could only strike the post despite sending Emi Martinez the wrong way.

Argentina took the lead in the 35th minute after Lisandro Martinez headed home from a Lionel Messi corner, set up by Alexis Mac Allister. They look well-set to hold onto their lead for the remainder of the game and progress to the semis of Copa America 2024.

Argentina's path ahead in Copa America 2024 after nearing quarterfinals win over Ecuador

Argentina are nearing a hard-fought win over Ecuador in the quarter-finals of Copa America 2024. Lionel Scaloni's side find themselves up 1-0 with around fifteen minutes to go in the fixture.

Should they end up as winners in the game, they will book a semifinal clash against Venezuela or Canada, who will square off on July 5.

It has been a strong showing from Argentina at Copa America. They had a perfect run through Group A, winning all three of their three games and are yet to concede a goal in the tournament.

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