WATCH: Emi Martinez pulls off hilarious move after saving penalty vs Ecuador in Copa America quarter-final
Argentina goalkeeper Emi Martinez pulled out some incredible dance moves after saving a penalty in his team's Copa America quarter-final victory against Ecuador. La Albiceleste took a first-half lead in this match through Lisandro Martinez (35'), only to see it cancelled out by a late equalizer from Kevin Rodriguez in stoppage time (90+1').
With the game headed for a penalty shootout, the Argentines saw their captain, Lionel Messi, miss from the spot. Martinez then ensured the opposition didn't get ahead by saving Angel Mena's penalty.
Manchester City striker Julian Alvarez was up next, and he managed to score the shootout's first penalty. After turning it over to the Aston Villa man, Martinez saved yet another spot-kick, this time from Alan Minda, which gave his team the advantage.
It was after this moment that the former Arsenal goalkeeper turned towards the crowd and performed a little shimmy. In recent times, Martinez has become quite popular for performing some moves after coming out on top in crunch moments.
Following these saves, Argentina netted all three of their remaining penalties to ensure that the team won this shootout 4-2. It isn't the first time that Martinez's heroics have been noticed.
He was the man who produced important saves in the World Cup final against France in 2022 to hand Argentina the trophy. That night as well, the South American country won the shootout 4-2 following a 3-3 draw.
Aston Villa to disallow Emi Martinez from joining Argentina Olympics team after Copa America- Reports
Argentina goalkeeper Emi Martinez has made public his wish to represent his country at the Olympics in late July after Copa America. As per the rules of this competition, only three players over the age of 23 are allowed to form a part of the squad.
However, TyC Sports is reporting that the player's club, Aston Villa, have denied him permission to travel to the Olympics (via GOAL). Rather, they want Martinez to be present for their pre-season camps as they gear up for the 2024/25 Premier League campaign.
Moreover, the Villans have to contend with UEFA Champions League football as well in the coming season, after they finished fourth in the English top flight last year. Their first league match of the new season is against West Ham United at the London Stadium on August 17.