Liverpool star Alexis Mac Allister played a starring role in Argentina’s quarter-final win over Ecuador in Copa America

Liverpool star Alexis Mac Allister helped Argentina beat Ecuador in the quarter-finals of the Copa America on Thursday night in Houston, Texas.

After being rested in the final group-stage game against Peru, the 25-year-old was back in Argentina’s starting XI against Ecuador. The central midfielder was involved heavily throughout his nation’s last-eight win over Ecuador.

Alexis Mac Allister had a big hand in Argentina’s opener in the 35th minute; he flicked a corner kick to the back post which was headed home by Manchester United’s Lisandro Martinez. The Lionel Messi-led team had a firm grip on the game and were heavy favourites to advance, but they failed to double the lead and kill the game.

Ecuador were presented with a chance to equalise from the spot, which Enner Valencia crashed against the woodwork and missed. However, they stunned the Argentineans by equalising in the 91st minute through Kevin Rodriguez, meaning the game went straight into a penalty shootout as Copa America decided to only play extra time in the final if required.

With Argentina winning 1-0, Mac Allister was the third player to walk and assume his duties. He duly dispatched the penalty kick into the bottom right corner past the Ecuadorian shot-stopper, illustrating his cool and calm head during an intense situation. Eventually, Argentina went on to win the contest 4-2 thanks to Emi Martinez’s heroics in goal, stopping two spot-kicks.

When Argentina needed some inspiration during a period of chaos, Mac Allister stepped up to the plate once again. He manufactured a smart near-post flick-on header for Martinez’s opener before scoring a nerveless penalty in the shootout.

Delving deep into his game, the Reds’ midfield maestro enjoyed a 90% pass accuracy by completing 35 out of 39 passes. He created one big chance whilst recording an eye-catching seven final third passes. The 25-year-old also showed the dirty side of his game by winning three out of four tackles in a feisty battle against the Ecuadorians. He also made one interception and 10 ball recoveries in an all-round midfield display to help his nation set up a semi-final clash against either Canada or Venezuela. (Courtesy: Sofascore)

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It is not a secret anymore that Mac Allister has become one of Lionel Scaloni’s key players in the South American team in the last 15-18 months. His role in La Albiceleste’s World Cup triumph in 2022 remains underrated, and the central midfielder will now be raring to get a gold medal in this Copa America tournament.

We wish Mac Allister and Argentina all the very best!