Argentina vs Peru
Watch Argentina vs Peru full match replay and highlights.
KICK-OFF at 00:00 (GMT) on 30th June 2024
The referee for this match is C. Ramos
Game played at Hard Rock Stadium
This is a match in South America – Copa America, Group A, Season 2024
Argentina continued their impressive run at the 2024 Copa América with a decisive 2-0 victory over Peru at the Hard Rock Stadium, ensuring a flawless group stage performance and sending La Blanquirroja to their first group-stage exit in nearly three decades.
Tactical Shifts and Early Dominance
With a quarter-final berth already secured, Argentina made nine changes to their lineup for the final group game, including resting their star player Lionel Messi due to a hamstring concern. Assistant coach Walter Samuel, stepping in for the suspended Lionel Scaloni, witnessed a strong start from his reconfigured side, though Peru’s resolute defense limited Argentina’s clear-cut chances early on.
Argentina’s first significant opportunity came just before the half-hour mark from a set-piece. Leandro Paredes of Roma delivered a curling free-kick aimed at the top corner, but Peru’s goalkeeper Pedro Gallese made a spectacular save with his outstretched right hand. Gallese was crucial again later in the first half, denying Giovani Lo Celso with a well-timed save using his left boot.
Second-Half Brilliance and Decisive Moments
Despite Peru’s determination and a goalless first half, their challenge became more daunting shortly after the restart. Within two minutes, Lautaro Martínez capitalized on a perfectly timed pass from Angel Di Maria, lifting the ball over Gallese with a deft touch to score in his fourth consecutive international appearance.
Argentina thought they had doubled their lead moments later when Nicolás Tagliafico found the net from a corner, but the goal was disallowed due to offside. The frustration continued when Paredes struck the post with a 71st-minute penalty. However, Lautaro Martínez ensured victory with another delicate chip, sealing Argentina’s eighth consecutive win and maintaining their momentum heading into the quarter-finals.
Looking Forward
Argentina’s dominant performance and strategic depth underscore their strong prospects as they advance. With Messi expected to return, they will be a formidable force in the knockout stages. Peru, on the other hand, must reflect on their performance and rebuild after a disappointing group-stage exit.