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Messi calls Argentina hero Martinez a 'phenomenon' after shootout stops in Copa America semi-final

Emiliano Martinez has been labelled a "phenomenon" by Argentina team-mate Lionel Messi for his three shootout saves to clinch a Copa America semi-final win over Colombia on Tuesday.

The 28-year-old earned his first international cap last month following a standout club season at Aston Villa and has now made himself a hero for the Albiceleste.

Colombia had forced the shootout with a 61st-minute goal from Luis Diaz that cancelled out an early Messi-assisted strike from Lautaro Martinez, but Argentina's goalkeeper ensured a place in the final against Brazil on Saturday.

What has been said?

"We have Emi who is a phenomenon," said Messi, who converted from the spot in the shootout.