Argentina's captain, Lionel Messi, missed the first kick of a penalty shootout as they defeated Ecuador in the 2024 Copa America quarterfinals on Thursday night.

The game finished 1-1 after 90 minutes.

Lisandro Martinez started the scoring for Albiceleste in the first half, but Kevin Rodriguez equalized in stoppage time.

Messi hit the crossbar with a failed panenka attempt and was comforted by Ecuadorian goalkeeper Alexander Dominguez in a startling start to the shootout.

However, Emi Martinez saved Messi's blushes by saving twice to secure a 4-2 victory and passage to the semi-finals.

They will meet the victor of the Venezuela-Canada match on Tuesday evening.