3️⃣ things we learned as Copa América day six delivers the drama | OneFootball

More Copa América action continued on Tuesday as Matchday 2 kicked off on day six of the tournament.

Here are some of the best talking points from Group A’s latest fixtures.

Martinez is the new go-to for Argentina

Since his switch to Major League Soccer, Lionel Messi’s form hasn’t dropped one bit. But after two games at this major tournament, he’s yet to turn into the Messi we know all too well.

It’s left the door open for another name to emerge as the hero for Argentina: Lautaro Martínez.

He now has two goals off the bench in as many games for the Copa América holders, both of which arrived in the 88th minute.

The Inter striker scored 27 times last season and, after a poor World Cup showing, has finally turned up again for the national team. He’ll be thanking VAR for tonight’s winner against Chile, too.

Moving forward, Lionel Scaloni will need to decide whether to keep him as the star substitute or give him a starting nod. Could one Julian Alvarez lose his spot?

Regardless of where and when he plays, we’re sure Martínez will be happy to be back delivering for the national team when it matters most.

Goalkeepers remain stars of the show

Despite plenty of stars between these four teams, we’re here to again make a case for the players between the sticks! Multiple goalkeepers were at the top of their game during Tuesday’s Group A fixtures.

Canadian Maxime Crépeau has double-digit saves to his name after two games and was vital with two huge moments against Peru deep in stoppage time. He also rushed to the aid of an assistant referee who fainted mid-match.

Then don’t forget veteran Claudio Bravo. The 41-year-old is still leading Chile’s defence and was vital against Argentina. A point-blank save on Alexis Mac Allister’s header was followed by pushing Nicolás González’s rocket effort off the posts.

World Cup winner Emiliano Martínez also earns a nod for his efforts. He needed to stay alert until the 75th minute for Argentina and made three late saves in 15 minutes to deny Chile a huge upset.

If you play the game yourself, remember to thank your ‘keeper.

This group is far from decided

Argentina booked their spot in the knockouts but the other spot is still up for grabs. Which is a scenario that wasn’t quite expected when the tournament draw was made.

Canada surprisingly sit second after two matches and above third place Chile. The meeting between these two is, therefore, vital, and you can expect fireworks. The Canucks notably only need one point to qualify for the next round.

Fourth-place Peru are also still in the mix ahead of their clash with Argentina. Should they beat the World Champions, it would be not only a shock heard around the world but a huge shake-up for the Group A standings.

Everyone is hanging on for dear life!