Messi leads Argentina to victory over Ecuador in WC qualifiers
By Emmanuel Awosika
Lionel Messi provided the lone goal that gifted Argentina a win over South American neighbors Ecuador in their World Cup qualifying match on Thursday.
The 33-year old forward showed no signs of aging and was lively throughout the match played at the iconic Bombonera stadium in Buenos Aires, Argentina.
The hosts enjoyed possession for large swathes of the game, but found it hard to get a goal past the resolute Ecuador defence.
However, a foul by Pervis Estupinan on Lucas Ocampo in the 18-yard box gave Argentina a golden opportunity to break the deadlock.
It was Messi who scored the penalty, gifting the hosts their only goal of the encounter. Messi’s goal brings his tally for Argentina to 71 in all matches.
The result ensured Argentina avoided a repeat of the last World Cup qualifying campaign where Ecuador beat them 2-0 in the opening match.
