HOUSTON, July 4 (Xinhua) -- Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni admitted that his team was outplayed at times by a spirited Ecuador after the reigning World Cup winners beat their South American rivals on penalties to reach the Copa America semifinals on Thursday.
"Ecuador is a tough, physical opponent. We are satisfied to advance but it wasn't easy for us," Scaloni told a news conference.
"The positive thing is that we got through. But they [Ecuador] subdued us at times with their direct play. This is what happens in football. Everyone comes switched on, with a lot of motivation. Without a doubt there are things to improve," he added.
The quarterfinal clash was forced into a shootout after a late Kevin Rodriguez strike canceled out Lisandro Martinez's earlier goal at the NRG Stadium in Houston.
Lionel Messi missed the opening spot kick, before Albiceleste goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez saved consecutive attempts from Angel Mena and Alan Minda.
Nicolas Otamendi converted the decisive penalty to set up a semifinal clash between either Canada or Venezuela on July 9.
"We really trust our goalkeeper [Martinez] and he again showed why he is so good with his performance tonight," Scaloni said.
Ecuador manager Felix Sanchez said he could not have asked for more from his players.
"We played well and showed that we can compete with the best," Sanchez said. "There is a lot of merit in what the boys have done. We were very direct and created a lot of chances but unfortunately it wasn't to be in the penalty shootout." ■
微信扫描下方的二维码阅读本文
