Ecuador vs. Argentina: LIVE Updates, Score, Analysis from World Cup Qualifier
Quito, Ecuador – argentina will face Ecuador in a crucial World Cup qualifying match today, despite already securing their place in the 2026 tournament. The match, taking place in Quito, will see Argentina without Lionel Messi, who is continuing his recovery from a hamstring injury.
Argentina has already qualified for the 2026 World Cup, focusing on refining combinations and preparing to defend their World Cup title next summer. Ecuador also secured qualification with relative ease,demonstrating a strong defensive record,having conceded only five goals in 17 qualifying games. However, their attack has struggled, scoring just 13 goals and drawing their last four qualifiers 0-0.Ecuador has only conceded one goal in their last 10 games, a late consolation goal for Venezuela. They have suffered only two losses in South American World Cup qualifying, fewer than any othre nation.
Team Lineups & Focus:
Ecuador: Sebastian Beccacece’s side is anchored by Chelsea’s Moises Caicedo in midfield and veteran striker Enner Valencia leading the attack.Their defence features a strong back four comprised of Piero Hincapie (Arsenal), Willian Pacho (PSG), Pervis Estupinan (AC Milan), and Joel Ordonez (Club Brugge).
Argentina: Lionel Scaloni is expected to rotate the squad, giving opportunities to players who were on the bench during their 3-0 win against Venezuela, including Lautaro Martinez, Nico Paz, alexis Mac Allister, and Giovanni Lo Celso.Nicolas Gonzalez and Exequiel Palacios are also vying for starting positions.
Messi’s Absence:
Lionel Messi confirmed he will miss the match against Ecuador to continue his recovery. “I spoke with scaloni, and he decided that I should rest, not travel to Ecuador as I’m recovering from an injury,” Messi stated after the Venezuela victory. “We prefer to avoid the trip and prepare for what’s coming up well-rested. We’re preparing to win the MLS, and that’s a goal. We have a pleasant in October, and we’ll meet again.”
Prediction:
Analysts anticipate a tightly contested match, potentially ending in a draw. Ecuador’s defensive strength is expected to frustrate Argentina, with Ecuador looking to capitalize on counter-attacks.Score Prediction: ecuador 1-1 Argentina
