Lisandro Martinez delivered another strong World Cup performance as Argentina beat Egypt 3-2 to reach the quarter-finals.
The Manchester United defender started in Argentina’s back four during a dramatic last-16 tie in Atlanta. Lionel Scaloni’s side trailed 2-0 before scoring three late goals.
Cristian Romero started the comeback before Lionel Messi levelled. Enzo Fernandez then headed in a 92nd-minute winner to keep Argentina’s title defence alive.
Martinez played his part in a chaotic knockout game. He finished with 94% pass accuracy, 76 touches and 23 carries from defence.
The United centre-back also made 11 passes into the final third. That number underlined his value in Argentina’s build-up, especially when Egypt forced them to chase the game.
Martinez Gives United Another World Cup Marker
Martinez also stood up defensively. He contested nine ground duels, won seven of them and completed all four of his attempted tackles.
Those numbers show why Argentina continue to trust him in high-pressure matches. Martinez gives Scaloni aggression, control and forward passing from the left side of defence.
Read Man Utd has already covered another United-linked Argentina World Cup story this week, with David Beckham and Diego Simeone reunited in Miami. Martinez now gives United a more current reason to follow Argentina’s run closely.
The 28-year-old has had a top tournament so far. His latest display came in a match where Argentina needed composure as much as fight.
Argentina will now face Switzerland or Colombia in the quarter-finals. United will watch Martinez’s workload, but his level at this tournament continues to look encouraging.
