Lionel Messi scored a brilliant freekick to help Argentina beat Ecuador in the CONMEBOL qualifying series-opening game for the 2026 World Cup.
The world champions began the journey to qualify for the defence of their crown against a difficult South American counterpart at the El Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires, Argentina.
It took 78 minutes and Messi’s magic to break the Ecuadorians and secure all three points for the Copa America champions, who had to put up a disciplined defensive display to stay in the game.
The goal helped the captain move places up in two different records, one of which was equalling Luis Suarez’s 29 goals as the most in South American World Cup qualifiers, as reported by Republic World.
Every day and with every goal, you get to hear that Messi has matched, surpassed, or set a new record, and his goal against Ecuador was no exception.
According to MessivsRonaldo app, the freekick was the 65th of his career, his fifth in 2023 and his 11th for the national team. It was also the fourth in a World Cup qualifier.
By scoring 65, he moves level with Inter Miami co-owner David Beckham, who also scored 65 during his career. He remains far off the top, with Brazilian striker Juninho holding firm with 77.
