The Argentine National Team took a significant step forward in their preparations for defending the Copa América title with a 1-0 victory over Ecuador in a friendly match held in Chicago. Despite team captain Lionel Messi starting on the bench and playing less than a half, the Albiceleste were able to showcase several high points that affirm their status as world champions.
Cristian Cuti Romero emerged as a key player, demonstrating versatility, physical presence, and technical quality. His leadership on the field, along with an assist for the match-winning goal scored by Ángel Di María, reinforced the Argentine defense. Di María, stepping in as captain in Messi's absence, netted his 31st goal for Argentina in the 40th minute, putting the team ahead. Later substituted by Messi in the 56th minute, Di María's effort encapsulated his significant role as he approaches the latter stage of his international career.
Emiliano Martínez had a relatively quiet game but made two crucial saves, including a decisive one in the closing minutes against Enner Valencia. Gonzalo Montiel exhibited dynamic movement along the wing, despite being less impactful in the final third. Lisandro Martínez and Marcos Acuña provided defensive solidity, while Leandro Paredes' line-breaking passes effectively countered the Ecuadorian pressure.
Rodrigo de Paul played a crucial role in enabling Romero before Di María’s goal and remained the driving force of the team. Giovani Lo Celso displayed flashes of brilliance and contributed defensively. Julián Álvarez and Lautaro Martínez had a challenging time in making significant impacts but showed glimpses of promise.
Lionel Messi's brief appearance excited the American crowd with his trademark electric runs, though he had little time to alter the outcome decisively. Enzo Fernández, coming off a hernia operation, managed to keep pace and displayed his potential ahead of the Copa América.
The match against Ecuador was part of two friendlies scheduled before the Copa América kicks off. The reigning world champions are set to face Guatemala in Maryland this Friday, continuing their journey with a focus on defensive robustness and attacking flair as seen in their Chicago performance.
- Nicolás González had a notable run towards the end of the match that could have resulted in a second goal, highlighting Scaloni's strategy to keep the offensive pressure until the final whistle. Lucas Martínez Quarta was brought in late to help close out the game.
- Argentina's national squad will have their next friendly against Guatemala in Maryland, showcasing their evolving strategies and hopes of fine-tuning their squad before the Copa América.
