Emi Martinez’s ultimate mind games and s***housery in Argentina penalty shootout
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Aston Villa goalkeeper Emi Martinez became the hero for Argentina after an inspired penalty shootout performance booked his nation a place in Sunday's Copa America final with Brazil.
There was nothing to split Argentina and Colombia after 90 minutes of action, with the scores level at 1-1.
A penalty shootout between the sides then followed, during which Martinez, the former Arsenal goalkeeper who joined Premier League rivals Villa last season, became the star of the show.
The 28-year-old saved spot-kicks from Davinson Sanchez, Yerry Mina and Edwin Cardona and grabbed attention after being caught attempting to play mind games with the penalty takers.
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When Everton centre-back Mina stepped up to the spot, Martinez was heard saying: “You’re nervous, huh? I can tell you’re nervous.
"I know where you’re going to shoot.”
“Watch and see how I’m gonna eat you up. Look, I know you, eh, I'll eat you.”
"Remember, I'm gonna eat you up."
His off-putting tactics worked as Argentina earned a 3-2 win on penalties, setting up a heavyweight clash against Brazil in the final of the competition.
La Albiceleste now have the opportunity to claim their first Copa America title since 1993 and end Lionel Messi's long wait for a trophy with his country.
The Barcelona star has been criticised in the past for failing to achieve the same success at club level on the international stage and appeared very emotional after Martinez's efforts.
Who will win the Copa America when Brazil and Argentina go head-to-head this Sunday? Comment below.
Discussing the performance of the Villa shot-stopper after the match, Messi said: "We have Emi, who is a phenomenon.
"We trusted him. We achieved the goal of being able to play all the games and now we are going to the final."
Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni was also full of praise for the former Arsenal keeper, who only made his international debut last month.
"We are very happy with Emiliano's performance, not only because of the penalties, but also because of the security that he is transmitting," he said. "
"The group of defenders is permanently supported and we like that."
- Lionel Messi
- Aston Villa FC
- Premier League
- Everton FC
- Barcelona FC
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