Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez hailed Inter Milan talisman Lautaro Martinez after a crucial World Cup qualifying triumph.
During a post-match interview via FCInterNews, the Aston Villa star recognized El Toro’s importance to La Albiceleste.
Lautaro Martinez netted a match-winning goal early in the second half to lead his country to a narrow 1-0 triumph at La Bombonera.
It was Argentina’s 18th consecutive game against Peru without a defeat.
More importantly, it was a perfect response to a 2-1 heartbreak at Paraguay last weekend.
As a result of their third successive home win, Lionel Scaloni’s men have strengthened their position at the top of the group.
With second-placed Uruguay five points behind, they’re in pole position to win the CONMEBOL qualifying group for the first time this century.
Indeed, the Argentines are on the verge of breaking Brazil’s long-term reign of dominance in South America.
Argentina Goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez Heaps Praise on Inter Milan Star Lautaro Martinez
Martinez has been outstanding for Argentina this year.
His imperious form at the 2024 Copa America was the backbone of La Albiceleste’s triumph in the United States.
In addition to winning the Golden Boot, he carried his team to the title almost single-handedly.
However, his form has been in freefall since the start of the 2024/25 season.
That’s perhaps best illustrated by a dismal haul of just one goal from ten World Cup qualifying games.
But he has hit the ground running in November.
Before a match-winner against Peru, he broke the deadlock against Paraguay, announcing his return to form.
“The goal has already been ‘opened’ for a while,” Dibu said.
“Lautaro gave us the Copa America, he scored a great goal today as he has scored many others.
“For that, we are proud to play with him,” he concluded.
Lautaro will return to Inter tomorrow but could start the upcoming Serie A game against Hellas Verona on the bench.