Argentina takes the lead vs. Peru in important match for Canada
Though Canadian fans are busy watching Les Rouges take on Chile in Orlando, the match happening a few hours south between Argentina and Peru is just as important for Canada’s future.
Argentina took the lead early in the second half — the best-case scenario for Canada — off a goal from Lautaro Martinez, his third goal in three games.
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With eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Lionel Messi sidelined with an injury, Martinez stepped up in his absence. The 26-year-old Argentinian took a lead pass from teammate Angel Di Maria and slipped it past Peruvian keeper Pedro Gallese, who made some key saves to keep the game even in the first half.
Martinez has scored in each of Argentina’s matches this tournament.
With this lead, some pressure is taken off Canada, who only need a draw against Chile to advance to the knockout round should Argentina maintain the lead to win the match.
That game is currently scoreless, halfway through the second half.