Lionel Messi's late free kick lifts Argentina over Ecuador in World Cup qualifier

Argentina beat Ecuador 1-0 in 2026 World Cup qualifying action on Thursday thanks to a late Lionel Messi free kick.

The home crowd in Estadio Mas Monumental roared as La Albiceleste held on for the 1-0 win against an up-and-coming Ecuador team that gave the defending World Cup champions a tough test.

Argentina dominated the game statistically but failed to be clinical with its shots. La Albiceleste logged 13 shots in total, though just four hit the target. Ecuador had five shots with three on target, though Argentina dominated possession at 71% as La Tri opted to be conservative in a 5-3-2 shape.

But, as he so often does, Messi found the pivotal breakthrough against a sturdy low block to see his nation claim all three points.

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