Manchester United centre-back Lisandro Martinez produced a solid performance during Argentina’s 2-1 win over England in the World Cup semi-final.
Argentina went into the game as slight favourites, but it was England that broke the deadlock. Anthony Gordon opened the scoring shortly after the interval.
From then on, the holders piled on the pressure on the Three Lions, who took a defensive approach that ultimately cost them a place in the final against Spain.
Enzo Fernandez equalised with a sublime strike (85th minute) from the edge of the box before Lautaro Martinez bagged a late winner in stoppage time to break England hearts.
United star Martinez was substituted before the late turnaround due to an early booking, but he had a big role to play, which was praised by popular Argentine outlet TyC Sports.
They wrote that the 28-year-old struggled in the air against the Three Lions, but he was ‘flawless’ with his ground work and was particularly effective alongside Nicolas Tagliafico on the left flank.
TyC Sports mentioned: “He might have struggled in the air, but his work on the ground was flawless, particularly effective alongside Tagliafico on the left flank. The yellow card could have hampered him somewhat, and he was substituted.”
Martinez has been the standout defender for Argentina at the World Cup. He had a good outing against England too, completing 98 percent of his passes and losing possession just twice.
The Red Devils star also made four clearances and one recovery, but he was replaced by Nicolas Otamendi towards the end with the risk of another yellow card chasing the game.
Still, he delivered a quality defensive showing for the reigning World champions and should line up alongside Cristian Romero in the heart of the backline against Spain in Sunday’s final.
Stats from Sofascore