Higuain, Messi propel Argentina into Copa America semis

Gonzalo Higuain scored twice before star striker Lionel Messi produced a masterful display as Argentina stormed into the semi-finals of the Copa America Centenario with a comfortable 4-1 win over Venezuela at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts on Sunday.

Forward Higuain headed Argentina into an eighth-minute lead before doubling the score for his side in the 28th minute, goal.com reported.

It was in the 60th minute when Messi scored the third girl to equal Gabriel Batistuta's 54-goal record and hand his side with a win. He ended the match with a goal and two assists.

Although Salomon Rondon provided Venezuela with some hope by opening his side's account in the 70th minute of the match, Argentina continued to maintain their three-goal lead with Tottenaham's Erik Lamela scoring the fourth goal just one minute later.

Meanwhile, Chile have also progressed through to the semi-finals after crushing Mexico 7-0 in their last eight clash.

Argentina will now lock horns with USA while Chile will take on Colombia for a place in the finals.