Copa America 2024: What is Lionel Messi's record against Ecuador?

Argentina face Ecuador in quarterfinals.

Defending champions Argentina have secured their place in the quarterfinals of the 2024 Copa America after finishing atop Group A with a flawless record of three wins out of three.

Argentina began their campaign strongly by defeating newcomers Canada 2-0 in the tournament opener, courtesy of goals from Julian Alvarez and Lautaro Martinez. They maintained their winning momentum in the subsequent match, clinching a hard-fought 1-0 victory over resilient Chile with a late winner from Lautaro Martinez.

Under Lionel Scaloni’s guidance, Argentina continued their perfect run in the group stage by convincingly beating bottom-placed Peru 2-0 in their final group game.

Next up for the 2022 World Cup winners is a quarterfinal clash against Ecuador at the NRG Stadium. Ecuador secured second place in Group B behind table-toppers and surprise package Venezuela.

Captain Lionel Messi showcased his usual brilliance in the opening matches against Canada and Chile, delivering a delightful assist against the former and leading his team with stellar performances. However, the 37-year-old forward was sidelined as an unused substitute in Argentina’s final group game against Peru due to injury concerns.

With a remarkable international career featuring 108 goals in 184 appearances, Messi stands as Argentina’s all-time top scorer. He boasts a prolific record against Ecuador, having netted seven goals against them in various encounters.

Six of Messi’s goals came during World Cup qualification matches, including a memorable hat-trick in a 3-1 victory during the 2018 qualifiers. The remaining goal was a stunning free kick in the 2021 Copa America quarterfinals, where Messi also provided two assists in a commanding 3-0 triumph.

Messi’s stellar form during the Copa America 2021 led Argentina to end their trophy drought, clinching his first international silverware.

As Argentina gears up for a crucial quarterfinal clash in Copa America 2024, they enter as clear favorites against Ecuador. Messi aims to recover fully from his injury concerns and lead Argentina towards another potential triumph in the tournament.

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