Gary Lineker reacts to Aston Villa’s Emiliano Martinez’s performance against Colombia

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1003651222 e1625656878719

Argentina secured a place in the Copa America final following a hard-fought penalty shoot-out win over Colombia last night, with Aston Villa’s Emiliano Martinez emerging as the hero.

Lionel Messi-led side took the lead seven minutes into the game through Lautaro Martinez but were pegged back with 30 minutes to go.

Both sides finished regulation and extra-time without a winner, and it was up to Martinez to save the day.

The Villa goalkeeper thwarted the Colombians, saving three spot-kicks as Argentina ran out 3-2 winners.

BBC Match of the Day presenter Gary Lineker was impressed with his heroics.

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Villa brought in Martinez from Arsenal last summer for ยฃ17 million, and it has proven to be a massive bargain 12 months later.

The 28-year-old kept 15 clean sheets at the end of the campaign, equalling Brad Friedel’s club record for most clean sheets in a season.

Martinez was voted Villa Supporters’ Player of the Season and has taken that form with him to Copa America.

Brazil currently stand between him and a first international trophy, and he will be raring to go against Neymar and co on Sunday.

While his participation at the tournament would see him miss the start of pre-season preparations, manager Dean Smith will not be too worried as he knows Martinez will return to Villa Park in top shape and form.

The Villans start the 2021-22 Premier League campaign with a trip to Watford on August 14, and the Argentine will be eager to lead his side to Europe after last season’s disappointment.

Read: 2021 Premier League transfers.

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