Argentina beat Ecuador on penalties to reach Copa America semifinals

HOUSTON, July 4 (Xinhua) -- Emiliano Martinez saved two spot kicks as defending champions Argentina defeated Ecuador on penalties to advance to the Copa America semifinals on Thursday.

Lisandro Martinez put Argentina ahead by nodding home just after the half-hour and the Albiceleste looked on course for victory before Kevin Rodriguez equalized in second-half stoppage time.

With no extra-time, the game wen