Argentina Defeats Ecuador in Pre-Copa America Friendly
Di Maria Nets Winner
The Albiceleste kicked off their Copa America preparations with a 1-0 victory over Ecuador in a pre-tournament friendly at Soldier Field in Chicago on Saturday.
Messi Returns to Action
The match marked the return of Lionel Messi to international action after missing the past two friendlies due to injury. Messi played 64 minutes and was a constant threat to the Ecuadorian defense.
Di Maria Scores Late Winner
With the game seemingly heading for a draw, veteran winger Angel Di Maria stepped up in the 78th minute to score the winning goal.
Messi played a key role in the goal, finding Di Maria with a pinpoint pass. Di Maria then cut inside and unleashed a powerful shot that flew into the top corner.
The goal was Di Maria's 27th for Argentina and his first in over a year.
Conclusion
Argentina's victory over Ecuador was a positive sign ahead of the Copa America, which begins on June 13 in Brazil. The Albiceleste will be looking to improve on their third-place finish in the 2019 tournament and claim their first Copa America title since 1993.
Messi's return to the team and Di Maria's late winner have given Argentina fans plenty of reasons to be optimistic about their chances in Brazil.
تعليقات