Messi leads Argentina to win over Ecuador in World Cup qualifier

BUENOS AIRES, Sept. 7 (Xinhua) -- Lionel Messi scored from a set piece as reigning champions Argentina began their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign with a 1-0 home victory over Ecuador on Thursday.

The 36-year-old forward put the hosts ahead in the 78th minute when he curled a 25-yard free-kick over the defensive wall and beyond a flat-footed goalkeeper Hernan Galindez.

It was no less than the Albi