Ecuador and Argentina Clash in Final CONMEBOL World Cup Qualifier

As the 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign in CONMEBOL nears its conclusion, Ecuador and Argentina are set to go head-to-head in a highly anticipated match this week. Both teams have already secured their spots in the upcoming tournament, with Argentina topping the table and Ecuador comfortably sitting in fourth place.

Under the guidance of head coach Sebastian Beccacece, Ecuador has built a formidable defensive unit that has conceded just five goals in 17 qualifying matches. The team's backline, featuring the likes of Arsenal's Piero Hincapie, PSG's Willian Pacho, AC Milan's Pervis Estupinan, and Club Brugge's Joel Ordonez, has been a key factor in their success. Veteran striker Enner Valencia continues to lead the attack for La Tricolour.

Beccacece has emphasized the team's unity and the close-knit bond they have developed, stating that there is a "very nice harmony within the group" and that they are "building a close-knit family." This strong team chemistry has undoubtedly contributed to Ecuador's impressive defensive record, with only one goal conceded in their last 10 matches.

On the other side, Argentina, the reigning World Cup champions, have dominated the South American qualifying campaign, winning 12 of their 17 matches and accumulating 38 points. However, they will be without their captain, Lionel Messi, who has confirmed he will skip the trip to Ecuador to return to Miami. Cristian Romero is also suspended for the match after receiving a yellow card in their previous outing.

Coach Lionel Scaloni is expected to rotate his squad, with Lautaro Martinez likely to return to the starting lineup after coming off the bench to score against Venezuela. Nicolas Otamendi will captain the side in Messi's absence, and Leonardo Balerdi is set to replace the suspended Romero in defense.