Enevitably, Lionel Messi proved teh difference between Argentina and Ecuador as the CONMEDOL World Cup Qualifiers kicked off. The Inter Miami forward and favourite for the the Balon d’Or score a sumptuous free-kick as Argentina ran out 1-0 winners.
Lionel Messi is now very much back to his imperious best. Since leaving PSG, the World Cup winner has sparkled for David Beckham’s Inter Miami in MLS and has brought that form to the international stage for Argentina.
Taking on Ecuador in front of a heaving, expectant Estadio Mas Monumental in Buenos Aires, the tie threatened to fizzle out into a scoreless draw.
The World Champions bossed possession throughout the tie but were frustrated in attack before Messi converted a stunning free-kick in the 77th minute. See the strike below:
LIONEL MESSI FREE KICK GOAL! 🇦🇷pic.twitter.com/yAsas0pRTQ
— Roy Nemer (@RoyNemer) September 8, 2023
Argentina are next in action on Tuesday when they travel to the infamous Hernando Siles Stadium to face Bolivia. At a touch over 3 600 metres above sea level, the World Champions will do well to come away from the match with a positive result.
