Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez vows to step up after round‑of‑16 win

Argentina’s goalkeeper Emiliano “Dibu” Martínez said he was dissatisfied with his performance in the 3‑2 extra‑time victory over Egypt that sent Argentina to the World Cup quarter‑finals. He admitted feeling “like I couldn’t help anyone” after conceding two goals and expressed confidence that his moment to make a decisive contribution will come.

Martínez highlighted his desire to improve ahead of the upcoming quarter‑final against Switzerland in Kansas City. He recalled his role in Argentina’s 2022 World Cup triumph and recent Copa América titles in 2021 and 2024, while noting his personal statistics of five goals conceded and four saves in the tournament, with an Opta efficiency rating of –1.5. The goalkeeper also mentioned playing through a fractured right‑hand ring finger sustained in May during an Europa League final with Aston Villa.

His comments came as Argentina celebrated the comeback that overturned a 0‑2 deficit, with goals from Cristian Romero, Lionel Messi and Enzo Fernández securing the win.