Argentina concluded their Group A campaign at Copa America 2024 with a convincing 2-0 victory over Peru, courtesy of Lautaro Martinez's impressive brace. Martinez, handed his first start of the tournament, proved his worth by scoring his third and fourth goals in three games, making a strong case for a starting spot in the upcoming matches.

The Inter Milan striker's opener came in the first half, expertly set up by Angel di Maria's precise through ball, which split the Peruvian defense. Martinez showcased his clinical finishing skills, calmly lifting the ball over the onrushing Pedro Gallese and slotting it home.

Martinez doubled Argentina's lead shortly before full-time, amidst a controversial incident involving a potential push on Peru's Aldo Corzo. The striker's clever positioning and quick reflexes allowed him to get to the ball first, floating it over Gallese once again.

Lionel Messi, the Argentine talisman, was absent from the match due to a hamstring injury he sustained in the previous game against Chile. Despite playing 90 minutes, Messi felt discomfort and was not 100% fit. However, the 37-year-old is expected to manage his injury and feature in the knockout rounds as Argentina defends their Copa America title.

With this win, Argentina maintains their perfect group stage record, topping Group A with nine points from three games. They will now face the runners-up from Group B in the quarterfinals, with Venezuela currently leading the group followed by Ecuador and Mexico.

Martinez's impressive form and Messi's expected return to fitness bode well for Argentina's chances in the tournament. As they progress to the knockout stages, the South American giants will be eager to continue their dominance and secure another Copa America title.