2023-09-08 08:56:09
Argentina released its third star with a victory against Ecuador (1-0), Thursday in the first match of South American qualifications for the 2026 World Cup, thanks to a new magical move from its captain Leo Messi on a free kick.
Dominant in possession, the reigning world champion had difficulty getting into shape. Only Lautaro Martinez in the 45th minute sent shivers down the aisles of the monumental Buenos Aires stadium by hitting the post. Qatar’s automatisms returned after the break with newfound aggression and captain Messi at the helm.
In apparent form since he left Paris-SG and Europe to join Inter Miami in the North American championship, as evidenced by his already 11 goals in MLS, he has created danger with each of his shots of bullets. In the 69th minute, combining with Rodrigo de Paul, the “Pulga” found himself at the entrance to the area, ball stuck to his left foot taking his quick little steps, but his curling shot lacked power.
Incessant waves returned to the Ecuadorian goal, its midfield outrageously dominated despite the presence of the most expensive recruit in the transfer window, Brighton Moises Caicedo, purchased for 133 million euros by Chelsea. One of these surges caused a foul on Lautaro Martinez and a free kick at the edge of the area, facing the goal. An offering for Messi who dryly caressed the leather to lob the wall and place the ball flush with Galindez’s post who was unable to make the slightest movement on his line (1-0, 77th).
Argentinian supporters plunged back into the madness of the World Cup in Qatar and Lionel Scaloni could savor, he who remains undefeated at the head of the Albiceleste in South American qualifications since taking office in 2018. Caicedo whatever, Ecuador does not was unable to come back to the score, despite some counter-attacks, on his veteran striker Enner Valencia. Argentina meets on Tuesday on the heights of La Paz for the second day against Bolivia.
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