Lionel Messi's words after the victory against Ecuador

Lionel Messi appeared again for Argentina in a game that was very complicated against a great team from Ecuador. Lionel Scaloni's team began their participation in the South American qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup in a great way. The Argentine team won thanks to a goal from Messi's free kick at the end of the game.

The Inter Miami player has lived a few great last months, where you can still see his level, despite making the decision to leave European soccer for Major League Soccer. Now, Lionel Messi was once again key to his selection and he already comments on what he experienced in this match where he touched on issues such as being substituted.

If something characterized Lionel Messi throughout his career, it is that he never wanted to leave before he finished the game. However, against Ecuador he left the court three minutes from the end. "Surely it's not going to be the last time he starts leaving games," said the captain after the match, making it clear that a new stage in his career is coming.

"Recently we were world champions but it seems that a lot happened. You have to keep going, competing and qualifying for the next World Cup, going game after game," Messi rescued after the match. The Argentine soccer player will have action again in the next match, but it is unknown if Scaloni will decide to use him as a starter after the significant wear and tear of this match.