Lionel Messi scores sublime free kick to lead Argentina to 1-0 win over Ecuador in CONMEBOL World Cup qualifier
Lionel Messi scores superb free-kick to lead Argentina to 1-0 victory over Ecuador in CONMEBOL World Cup qualifier
- With the match somewhat deadlocked, Messi stepped up and delivered
- Inter Miami’s genius scored in the 78th minute before coming on in the 89th
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Lionel Messi guided Argentina to a narrow 1-0 victory over South American rivals Ecuador thanks to a lavish free-kick in the 78th minute.
As usual every time the World Cup winner steps over a dead ball, the crowd in Buenos Aires held their breath before the Inter Miami man curled the ball over the wall and into the near corner of the net.
Ecuador goalkeeper Hernan Galindez could do little but stop and stare at Ecuador’s hopes of a point in the CONMEBOL 2026 World Cup qualifying opener.
The tiny number 10 was substituted in the 89th minute to a standing ovation and salute from Argentina’s favorite son.
In other qualifiers, Paraguay drew 0–0 against Peru, while Colombia claimed a 1–0 home win over Venezuela.
Lionel Messi guided Argentina in World Cup qualification to a narrow 1-0 victory over Ecuador
Argentina dominated possession, but found themselves exposed to the counter-attack within moments
Argentinian fans saluted his World Cup savior before he treated them to a delicious FK winner
World champions Argentina were dominant in possession but frustrated in attack as they struggled to make the breakthrough.
The first round of the CONMEBOL qualifiers continues on Friday, when Uruguay hosts Chile before Brazil takes on Bolivia.
More to come…