Lautaro Martinez expressed satisfaction with his performance after scoring twice in the second half to aid Argentina's reserve team in defeating Peru 2-0 at the Copa America on Saturday, securing the top spot in Group A and eliminating Peru from the tournament.
Martinez, making his first start in the competition, netted in the 47th and 86th minutes, marking his third consecutive match with a goal. The Inter Milan forward skillfully chipped the ball over Peru's goalkeeper Pedro Gallese in the 47th minute, and repeated the feat in the 86th minute, capitalizing on Peru's defensive errors for his second goal.
"I'm content because I managed to score in all three group-stage games and contributed to the team, which is what matters," Martinez, who faced criticism for his performances during Argentina's 2022 World Cup victory, told TyC Sports.
"I'm doing well, as I mentioned after the Chile match, I had a stellar season with my club and felt confident. I felt prepared to overcome the challenges from the World Cup and focused on preparing well for the Copa America, which I did and am demonstrating. Let's continue to work hard."
Argentina had already secured their place in the quarterfinals prior to the match in Miami with victories over Canada and Chile, the other teams in the group. This allowed the defending champions to rest key players, including captain Lionel Messi.
Messi, who turned 37 on Monday, is recuperating from a thigh injury sustained during their win over Chile on Tuesday. He is anticipated to return for their quarterfinal match on Thursday in Houston against the Group B runner-up.
Despite the absence of coach Lionel Scaloni, who was suspended and fined for delayed second-half starts in previous matches, and a significantly altered starting lineup, Argentina faced little difficulty from their opponents. They controlled possession in the first half and had three shots on target, but Peru's goalkeeper Gallese maintained a respectable scoreline with a series of saves, notably from a well-taken free kick by Leandro Paredes in the 26th minute.
The defending champions missed a golden opportunity to extend their lead when they were awarded a penalty for handball in the 72nd minute, but Paredes' spot-kick hit the post. They will be joined in the knockout rounds by group runners-up Canada, who secured their place in the last eight after a 0-0 draw with Chile in the other Group A match.
