2026 World Cup: Lionel Messi saves Argentina’s day against Ecuador and sets a new record

Overnight, Argentina took on Ecuador as part of the qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup. The Albiceleste once again relied on Lionel Messi for victory.

Last night, the French team beat Ireland 2-0 as part of the Euro 2024 qualifiers. Good news for the Bleues, who continue their unblemished run with 5 wins from 5 games. The finalists at the last World Cup are proving that they will be a force to be reckoned with in 2024 and then at the 2026 World Cup. The same will certainly be true of Argentina, who won the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

Whether Louis van Gaal likes it or not, who has expressed serious doubts about the Albiceleste’s success, Lionel Scaloni’s side are on top of the world. And they will be doing everything in their power to defend their title in three years’ time. Last night, they took on Ecuador as part of the qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup. The Argentinians came away with a 1-0 win, but struggled against a valiant Ecuadorian side.

In the first half, there were very few chances for either side, apart from a shot from Lautaro Martinez (45th). Then, the introduction of Angel Di Maria, Julian Alvarez and Leandro Paredes changed all that. After struggling for long periods against their opponents’ defence, Argentina finally found a way through. And the light came from Lionel Messi. La Pulga scored from a free-kick in the 78th minute (1-0).

It was a goal that allowed the former Barça and PSG player, who was sent off before the end of the match, to become a little more of a legend. In fact, he is now the all-time top scorer in World Cup qualifiers alongside Luis Suárez (29 goals). It’s a source of pride for Messi, who said: « It’s a pleasure for both of us to be here, with what the qualifiers mean. The fact that we’re both here is very pleasing for us. In form since leaving Paris, Messi (11 goals with Inter Miami) continues to impress. Argentina will be counting on him again on Tuesday against Bolivia.

Juste DOE