Argentina survive major scare in Copa America

LUIS ACOSTA / AFP

A penalty by Lionel Messi and goal-keeper Franco Armani’s heroics saved Argentina from another defeat in the Copa America.

Messi scored in the second-half and Armani later saved a penalty kick as Argentina held on for a 1-1 draw with Paraguay.

Richard Sanchez opened the scoring for Paraguay in the 37th minute, while Messi converted a 57th-minute penalty, which was awarded by video review following a handball by a defender.

Derlis Gonzalez had a chance to put Paraguay ahead again five minutes later, but Armani saved his shot.

The result leaves Argentina at the bottom of Group B, but they are still in contention for a spot in the knockout stage of the South American competition.

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