No Messi, no problem if Argentina beats Peru

Argentina made light of Lionel Messi’s injury absence and maintained its perfect start in Saturday’s Copa America match, beating Peru 2-0 in Miami.

Lautaro Martinez scored twice at Hard Rock Stadium to seal the win that sent Argentina through to the quarterfinals as Group A winners.

With Messi sidelined by a right hamstring injury and coach Lionel Scaloni suspended for one match, Argentina made nine changes to their starting line-up at the Hard Rock Stadium.

However, despite a makeshift squad, Argentina were always in control against a disappointing Peru side who managed just one shot on goal in a one-sided encounter.

Martinez’s first goal came just after the break, Angel Di Maria’s sublime through ball freeing the Inter Milan striker who calmly lifted a deft finish over the advancing Peru goalkeeper Pedro Gallese.

Argentina had a chance to double their lead in the 72nd minute when Jesus Castillo crossed into the penalty area and scored.

However, Leandro Paredes converted his penalty and the ball hit the post, making it 1-0.

Martinez scored his second goal in the 86th minute, intercepting a long pass forward and slotting the ball into the net past Gallese.

Replays showed Martinez had pushed defender Aldo Corzo in the build-up, but referee Cesar Ramos waved off Peru’s protest and the goal stood.

Argentina will now face the Group B runner-up, most likely Ecuador or Mexico, in the quarterfinals in Houston next Thursday.

In Saturday’s Group A match, Canada drew 0-0 in Orlando with 2015 and 2016 Copa America champions Chile, allowing the Canadians to advance to the quarter-finals.

Chile needed a victory to overtake the Canadians and advance to the knockout stages, but they had to make an effort early in the match when Gabriel Suazo received a second yellow card in the 27th minute.

Canada will face the winner of Group B in the quarterfinals.

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