Argentina defeated Ecuador 1-0 at home to start their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign off on the right foot. Lionel Messi’s goal in the second half was the difference.
Argentina win in World Cup qualifier: Argentina, the defending world champions, dominated in possession but found it difficult to score in attack.
But after 77 minutes, captain Messi scored from a free kick to continue the excellent form he has been displaying with club side Inter Miami.
According to Messi, “We played against a great team, with good players and physically strong,” to the press.
“Now that we are the world champions, there is an even greater desire among everyone to defeat Argentina. We must improve on what we’ve been doing; we cannot unwind.To once again earn a spot in the World Cup is the goal. Although we thoroughly enjoyed ourselves, we must think ahead.
With 29 goals, Messi’s goal tied him for first place all-time in the South American qualifying campaign with his close buddy Luis Suarez of Uruguay.
Messi, who has 104 goals in 104 appearances for his country, added, “It’s a pleasure for me that we are both there.”
Furthermore, It’s a very great thing for both of us, given what the qualifiers signify for us in South American football. On Tuesday, Argentina’s next game is against Bolivia. In other qualifiers, Paraguay and Peru drew 0-0, and Colombia defeated Venezuela 1-0 at home.
On Friday, Uruguay will host Chile before Brazil takes on Bolivia in another matchup from the first round of CONMEBOL qualifying.