Ecuador shocked Argentina with a 1-0 win in their final World Cup qualifier. The match, played in Guayaquil, was intense and filled with drama.
Argentina suffered an early blow when captain Nicolás Otamendi received a red card in the 31st minute. His foul on Enner Valencia left Argentina with ten men. Ecuador quickly took advantage. In first-half stoppage time, Valencia converted a penalty to give his team the lead.
The second half was equally tense. Ecuador’s Moisés Caicedo was also sent off after a rough challenge, leaving both teams with ten players each. Despite this setback, Ecuador held strong in defence. Argentina pressed hard but could not break through.
The game ended 1-0 in favour of Ecuador. The result secured second place in the South American standings. Argentina, who had already qualified, stayed top despite the loss. Both nations will feature in the 2026 World Cup.
This win was historic for Ecuador. It marked their first home victory against Argentina in over ten years. Enner Valencia once again proved decisive, showing why he remains Ecuador’s most reliable striker.
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