Stunning Messi free kick leads Argentina to beat Ecuador

Argentina began their 2026 World Cup qualifiers with 1:0 win over Ecuador.

Once again the Inter Miami star Lionel Messi was the one who stepped into the spotlight with a great goal.

The only goal was scored after a magical shot by Messi from a direct free kick in the 78th minute, getting the ball over the wall and into the net, leaving the opposition goalkeeper no chance to react.

Leo Messi gives reigning world champs Argentina the 1-0 win vs. Ecuador in 2026 World Cup qualifying 🇦🇷 pic.twitter.com/Gy0P88dhtL

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The goal scorer left the game in the 89th minute to the massive applause of the audience and handed the captain armband to Angel Di Maria.

A total of 10 teams are in the South American group, of which the first 6 qualify directly and the seventh plays playoff. The next clash for Messi and his teammates is against Bolivia.