Lionel Messi netted a stunning free-kick as Argentina commenced its 2026 World Cup qualifiers on a winning note, defeating Ecuador 1-0 on Friday.
Messi may be 36 years old, but at this stage of his career, the Inter Miami legend feels more inevitable than ever.
A 78th-minute free-kick goal from the Argentine hero sent the defending FIFA World Cup champions through to victory in Buenos Aires.
The goal put Messi on the scoresheet for an eighth straight international match, and gave Argentina all three points to begin the expanded World Cup cycle.
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The diminutive No. 10 was substituted in the 89 minute to a standing applause and salute of its Argentina’s favorite son.
In other qualifiers, Paraguay drew 0-0 with Peru while Colombia claimed a 1-0 home win over Venezuela.
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