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via Reuters

via Reuters

Lionel Messi, the Argentine talisman, continued his exceptional goal-scoring while representing his country during the international break. The 2022 World Cup winner delivered an ecstatic performance, as he has been doing for Inter Miami. In this instance, the Miami coach commended La Pulga for his contribution to their successful outing for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

The world champion guided Argentina in their triumph over Ecuador in the inaugural match of South American qualifiers. Meanwhile, both supporters and the Miami gaffer expressed admiration for the Argentine’s remarkable free-kick, which helped him catch up with two records.

Inter Miami boss praised Lionel Messi for his national stint

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Argentia emerged victorious against Ecuador, as Messi broke the deadlock with less than 15 minutes remaining in the game. The 7x Ballon d’ Or winner successfully emulated his form in South Florida, where he has scored 11 goals and put up 8 assists for Inter Miami.

Scoring a scrumptious free-kick in the 78th minute against Ecuador, Messi equaled the direct free-kick record of David Beckham (65). Furthermore, he reached another milestone matching his former Barcelona teammate Luis Suarez as the joint all-time top scorer with 29 goals in any South American qualifying competition.

Applauding Messi Miami boss Tata Martino said, “What it did, instead of being a Hollywood or Miami movie, it was a Buenos Aires movie. It’s still exactly the same with one jersey or another; he’s been doing the same thing for 20 years”.

via Reuters

Meanwhile, Argentina started their qualifier campaign with the 36-year-old legend playing a pivotal role, securing three points for his nation.

Read More: Lionel Messi Shares First Words Hours After Cristiano Ronaldo Ended Decade-Long ‘Rivalry’

In the 2026 World Cup qualifier, La Albiceleste secured a 1-0 victory against Ecuador with Messi netting a free kick goal

Argentina’s triumph over Ecuador

Ecuador displayed impressive defense, thwarting Argentina’s attack until the 78 minute of the game. Notably, Chelsea’s big buck signing Moises Caicedo was at the spine of Ecuador’s setup, making aggressive interceptions and tackles. The deadlock finally broke with La Pulga’s precise strike curling in the top corner of the goal post.

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The Leagues Cup champion found the back of the net in the eighth consecutive match for Argentina with three points in the opening game of the league.

via Imago

Meanwhile, fans and the Argentine captain, Angel Di Maria expressed enthusiasm for Messi’s performance. Argentina faces Bolivia on 13 September in the final game of this month’s international break.

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