Ecuador take on the visitors Argentina in the round 18 match of South America World Cup Qualification. The match will be played on Wednesday, September 10th at Estadio Monumental Banco Pichincha (Guayaquil).
Ecuador could hardly have done any better. The “Tricolor” began this qualifying campaign with a handicap, starting at the bottom after being docked 3 points for fielding Byron Castillo at the last World Cup with falsified naturalization papers. Yet they more than compensated for that deduction, while also reaching the Copa América quarterfinals again. The only concern has been the high number of 0-0 draws in 2025 under Sebastián Beccacece. Still, every scoreless game has kept them edging closer to the next World Cup. In the last round they settled for another goalless draw against Paraguay. Ecuador’s defensive structure has been impressive, as they have conceded just two goals in their last five matches. However, their lack of cutting edge in attack is a serious weakness, with only three goals scored in the same period.
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Argentina have finally delivered consistent, historic success. Most notably, they triumphed at the last World Cup — their first since the days of Maradona — allowing Messi to nearly equal Diego’s legendary status. Even before that, Lionel Scaloni and his squad had won the Copa América, and last year they successfully defended that crown. In qualifying they remain unmatched, though at times motivation is difficult once the objectives are secured. That partly explains their 0-0 draw in June against a motivated Colombia side at home. They opened this campaign with a dominant 3-0 win over Venezuela, with Messi scoring twice in what he admitted was his final match in front of home fans — but he won’t feature this time, as the coach confirmed. Argentina’s depth, however, means they can still rely on players like Lautaro Martínez and Julián Álvarez to provide goals. Their midfield control under De Paul and Mac Allister has also been a major strength.
Messi and company have 6 wins and 1 draw in their last seven meetings with Ecuador. At last year’s Copa América they were held 1-1 in the quarterfinal, but Emiliano Martínez once again showcased his trademark skill in penalty shootouts. The visitors are still the stronger side and should come away with the win — but the safer option is to back them with a “0” handicap.
Prediction for the match: Argentine to win with 0.0 handicap.
