JABAR EKSPRES – Lionel Messi led Argentina to beat Ecuador by a score of 1-0 in the first match of the 2026 World Cup qualifying Conmebol zone at the Monumental Stadium, Buenos Aires, Friday (9/8) WIB.
Lionel Messi’s single goal came in the 78th minute and made Argentina secure full points, according to Conmebol records.
This result makes Argentina at the top of the 2026 Conmebol zone World Cup qualifying standings with a score of three points from one match, while Ecuador occupies the 10th position.
Statistically Argentina actually appeared dominant by recording 71 percent of ball possession and fired nine kicks, three of which were on target, but only one resulted in a goal.
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Since the rolling of the first half, Argentina continued to pound the Ecuadorian defense and had a golden opportunity through Messi’s shot which was still sideways from the goal.
After Messi, it was Lautaro Martinez’s turn to have a chance after receiving Enzo Fernandez’s pass, but his shot was still weak and did not lead to the goal.
Lautaro again had a golden opportunity to bring Argentina ahead, but his shot still hit the Ecuador goalpost. The 0-0 score lasted until halftime.
Entering the second half, Argentina did not relax their attacks and often threatened several times, one of which was through Nicolas Tagliafico’s shot which still hit the Ecuador crossbar.
Ecuador tried to turn back the pressure and had a chance through a shot released by captain Enner Valencia, but the ball was still headed into the arms of goalkeeper Emi Martinez.
Messi’s individual action almost brought Argentina ahead, but the Inter Miami player’s shot was too weak and was secured by Ecuador goalkeeper Hernan Galindez.
The Albicelestes squad was finally able to break the deadlock after Lionel Messi’s shot was able to tear the Ecuadorian net so that the score changed to 1-0 in the 78th minute.
