Ecuador head into their remaining CONMEBOL World Cup qualifier with the possibility to wrap up second place if they will beat Argentina in Quito. Their place on the 2026 World Cup is already secured, however that is greater than only a lifeless rubber ,it’s about pleasure, momentum, and proving they will combine it with the easiest.
La Tri’s 0-0 draw with Paraguay final week didn’t change something, nevertheless it highlighted a nagging situation: they merely can’t discover the again of the online proper now. 4 video games with no aim has taken the shine off their qualification marketing campaign, and with solely 13 objectives scored, they sit close to the underside of the CONMEBOL scoring charts.
However at residence, it’s a distinct story. Ecuador are unbeaten in 14 straight WCQs in Quito, and the altitude benefit makes them a really troublesome aspect to beat.
Argentina come into this conflict relaxed however decided to complete on a excessive. Their 3-0 win over Venezuela final day out was billed as what may have been Lionel Messi’s remaining aggressive residence sport, and La Albiceleste delivered in model. They’ve been ruthless throughout this cycle ,12 wins, 11 clear sheets, and 31 objectives scored ,numbers that remind everybody why they’re world champions.
Nonetheless, their away type has been much less dominant, with two latest 1-0 wins following a patchy run on the highway. It’s a reminder that even the most effective may be examined exterior Buenos Aires.
Historical past leans closely in direction of Argentina, unbeaten of their final eight conferences with Ecuador. However Quito has brought about them issues earlier than – they’ve solely received three of their WCQ journeys there.
In the meantime, Argentina Nationwide Crew posted an unique video through its official X deal with, displaying the staff arriving at Equador for the World Cup qualifying match, watch beneath;
Crew Information
Ecuador are boosted by the return of Moisés Caicedo and Alan Franco, each set to fit again into midfield.Ecuador’s residence resilience and Argentina’s lacking stars make this sport much more intriguing than the desk would possibly recommend.
Argentina journey with out Lionel Messi, who has been excused, whereas Cristian Romero is suspended. The excellent news for Scaloni is Alexis Mac Allister is obtainable once more after sitting out the Venezuela conflict.Historical past leans closely in direction of Argentina, unbeaten of their final eight conferences with Ecuador. However Quito has brought about them issues earlier than – they’ve solely received three of their WCQ journeys there.
Potential Line-ups
Ecuador (4-3-3): Domínguez; Preciado, Torres, Arboleda, Estupiñán; Franco, Caicedo, Méndez; Plata, Valencia, Sarmiento.
Argentina (4-3-3): Martínez; Molina, Otamendi, Pezzella, Tagliafico; De Paul, Enzo Fernández, Mac Allister; Di María, Lautaro Martínez, Garnacho.
Quito has at all times been difficult for visiting groups, and Ecuador hardly ever lose there. With Messi not taking part in, Argentina would possibly lack their standard magic within the remaining third. Count on a good sport the place either side cancel one another out.
Prediction: Ecuador 1-1 Argentina
