Argentina suffered a 1-0 defeat against Ecuador in their recent World Cup qualifier match at Estadio Monumental Banco Pichincha. A penalty converted by Enner Valencia in the dying moments of the first half secured the victory for the home side.
Match Summary
The game took a turn when Nicolás Otamendi received a red card in the 31st minute for a foul on Valencia. Despite being a man down, Argentina fought hard to find an equaliser. Giovani Lo Celso had a shot blocked, and Emi Martínez made a crucial save to deny Kevin Rodriguez.
A notable moment was the debut of 18-year-old Franco Mastantuono, who replaced Leandro Paredes in the 62nd minute and wore the iconic number 10 shirt. Mastantuono managed two shots and completed a dribble, but couldn't change the scoreline.
Ecuador also faced a setback when Moisés Caicedo was dismissed in the 50th minute, briefly leveling the playing field. However, Ecuador held on to their lead to secure the win. This defeat marks the end of Argentina's qualifying campaign.
Mastantuono's Debut
Franco Mastantuono, the Real Madrid youngster, had a significant moment wearing the number 10 shirt. He will now return to Madrid to join Xabi Alonso's team. The starting lineup saw Lautaro Martinez in attack, with Mastantuono taking Messi's usual spot. Other changes included Leonardo Balerdi replacing the suspended Cristian Romero and Gonzalo Montiel stepping in for Nahuel Molina.
Argentina's Starting Eleven
- Emiliano Martínez
- Montiel
- Balerdi
- Otamendi
- Tagliafico
- De Paul
- Paredes
- Alexis Mac Allister
- Simeone
- Lautaro Martínez
- Nicolás González