Watch: Lionel Messi scores beautiful free kick goal as Argentina reach Copa America semis
Messi crafted a beautiful free-kick in the closing minutes to ensure Argentina win 3-0 after assisting both Lautaro Martinez and Rodrigo de Paul goals on the night.
Lionel Messi brilliant run of form continued at the Copa America 2021 on Sunday morning as the Argentina superstar led his team to 3-0 win over Ecuador in Gioania on Sunday morning. The 34-year-old skipper crafted a beautiful free-kick in the closing minutes to ensure Argentina win 3-0 after assisting both Lautaro Martinez and Rodrigo de Paul goals on the night. (Scroll below to watch the free kick)
The free-kick resulted after Angel Di Maria won a free kick right outside the penalty box. Referee earlier ruled the foul a penalty but VAR suggested otherwise; resulting in second yellow and subsequently a red for Ecuador defender Piero Hincapie.
The goal was an intelligent one taken by free-kick specialist as instead of going over the wall, Messi went for the far post after he saw goalkeeper Henan Galindez of his line and inclined to his right; giving the Ecuador shot-stopper no chance to react.
With the two assists and a goal, Messi has now direct contribution in eight of the eleven goals Argentina has scored this Copa America; with four goals and assists a piece.
Argentina will now face Colombia on Tuesday in the semi-finals, who defeated Urugauy on penalties after the match ended a stalemate following regular 90 minutes and extra 30 minutes of play.