Argentina wrapped up its South American qualifying campaign for the 2026 World Cup with a 1-0 loss to Ecuador in Guayaquil, as reported by La Nación. The key moment came just before halftime when Enner Valencia scored a penalty on his 100th international appearance, marking his last competitive home game for Ecuador. Despite the defeat, Argentina finished at the top of the standings, having secured qualification weeks earlier.
The match got tough for Lionel Scaloni’s team early on. Nicolás Otamendi was sent off in the 31st minute after fouling Valencia as he made a run toward goal. Down to 10 players, Argentina relied heavily on goalkeeper Emiliano “Dibu” Martínez to keep them in the match. However, in stoppage time, the VAR prompted a review of a foul by Nicolás Tagliafico on Ángelo Preciado in the penalty area. A penalty was awarded, and Valencia scored to give Ecuador the lead.
The second half started with more drama as Moisés Caicedo received a red card for a foul on Nico González, leveling the teams to 10 players each. Scaloni brought in fresh players including Julián Álvarez, Franco Mastantuono, and Giovani Lo Celso, who nearly equalized with a deflected shot that went over the bar. Nevertheless, Ecuador controlled the game, with Willian Pacho solid in defense and goalkeeper Hernán Galíndez seeing little action.
Argentina rotated its lineup after securing qualification, resting Lionel Messi and missing Cristian Romero due to suspension. Ecuador, guided by Argentine coach Sebastián Beccacece—who was also suspended—had already qualified but aimed to finish strong. The Monumental stadium in Guayaquil was filled with fans, who honored Valencia with a video tribute and applause before the match began.
The match concluded with intense protests, several cards issued, and a reminder of Ecuador’s strength at home. For Argentina, the qualifying campaign remains impressive, while Ecuador celebrated a notable win over the current world champions.
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