Lionel Messi scored from a free kick in the 78th minute to give Argentina a 1-0 win against Ecuador in the first round of South American World Cup qualifying
More than 83,000 fans at the nearly full Monumental de Nuñez Stadium were getting jittery until Messi scored, with their team having hit the post and the bar during the match, and offering Ecuador several chances to counter.Ecuador kept Argentina at bay during most of the match with a defensive line of five players, led by
, which put Messi under wraps during most of the clash in Buenos Aires. But the decisive moment of the star was enough to beat the hard-working Ecuadorians.did not move as Messi's shot from the edge of the box went to the back of the net, near the left post. Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni, who completed five years in the job on Thursday, surprised fans with a different formation from the one that played and won the World Cup final over France in Qatar. He benched
Singapore Latest News, Singapore Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
How to watch Lionel Messi, Argentina vs. Ecuador in 2026 World Cup QualifierLionel Messi and Argentina will take on Ecuador Thursday to kickstart 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying games. Here's how to watch.
Read more »
Lionel Messi's late free kick lifts Argentina over Ecuador in World Cup qualifierArgentina beat Ecuador 1-0 in 2026 World Cup qualifying action on Thursday thanks to a late Lionel Messi free kick.
Read more »
Messi magic earns Argentina win over Ecuador in World Cup qualifierLionel Messi's second-half goal gave Argentina a 1-0 home win over Ecuador on Thursday to get their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign off on the right foot.
Read more »
Cristiano Ronaldo no longer considers Lionel Messi a rivalAny beef between Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi is in the past now, according to Ronaldo.
Read more »
How Lionel Messi and soccer bring together a father and sonEvery parent knows: Kids grow up too fast. For one father and son, though, time briefly stood still, as they watched Lionel Messi in the flesh.
Read more »