John Yeboah came off the bench to provide a late assist for Ecuador in the 2024 Copa America quarter-finals against reigning champions Argentina but it was not enough as it ended in a penalty shootout loss after a 1-1 draw in regular time.
The Tricolor started the game brightly in Houston, putting the Albiceleste under intense pressure in the opening minutes.
They however fell behind in the 30th minute when Manchester United centre-back Lisandro Martinez rose highest to head in his first international goal.
Ecuador had the opportunity to level the game in the 62nd minute but former West Ham forward Enner Valencia missed from the penalty spot.
Felix Sanchez Bas’ men were however not going to be denied in the 92nd when John Yeboah, who is of Ghanaian heritage, drilled in a brilliant cross for Kevin Rodriguez to head home.
EL GRITO DE 18 MILLONES pic.twitter.com/Jphj55Eibi
— La Tri 🇪🇨 (@LaTri) July 5, 2024
Yeboah, who came on for Carlos Gruezo in the 80th minute, scored in the resultant shootout but it was too late as Angel Mena and Alan Mida failed to convert theirs after star forward Lionel Messi missed Argentina’s first kick.
Lionel Scaloni’s side ultimately won the shootout 4-2 to progress into the semi-finals while Ecuador boss Bas was relieved of his duties after the match.
