Messi Scores Free Kick Winner

Argentina Beats Ecuador 1-0 in Pre-Copa America Friendly

Messi Scores Free-Kick Winner

Argentina defeated Ecuador 1-0 in a pre-Copa America friendly match at Soldier Field on Thursday night. Lionel Messi scored the game's only goal on a free kick in the 28th minute.

Messi Returns to Form

Messi, who had not played for Argentina since the 2022 FIFA World Cup, looked sharp in his return to the international stage. He was involved in all of Argentina's attacking moves and created several chances for his teammates.

Messi's goal was a thing of beauty. He curled a free kick over the Ecuadorian wall and into the top corner of the net. It was his 98th goal for Argentina, moving him within two goals of Diego Maradona's all-time record.

Argentina Wins 22nd Contest

The win was Argentina's 22nd in 38 meetings with Ecuador. The Argentines have now won three consecutive matches against their South American rivals.

Argentina will open the Copa America on June 13th against Colombia. Ecuador will face Chile in their opening match on June 14th.