World Cup 2022 South American Qualifiers - Peru v Argentina
Lionel Messi has rejected the suggestion he is responsible for the problems besetting Barcelona, insisting he is tired of being the source of the issues that the club is dealing with. (Photo: Ernesto Benavides/Pool via REUTERS)

In a recent World Cup qualifier match, Lionel Messi, the seven-time Ballon d'Or winner, once again showcased his unparalleled skills, delivering a world-class free kick that secured Argentina's victory against Ecuador. The match, which seemed to be heading towards a goalless draw, was electrified in the 78th minute when Messi, from just over 20 yards, curled the ball flawlessly over the wall, leaving it to nestle in the top-left corner of the net. This impeccable shot left Ecuador's goalkeeper, Hernan Galindez, rooted to the spot.

While Argentina played on their home turf at Buenos Aires' Estadio Monumental, they initially struggled to make a significant impact. The first half saw the team without a single shot on target. However, the introduction of Angel Di Maria just past the hour mark seemed to invigorate the team. Yet, it was Messi's brilliance that eventually came to Argentina's rescue.

 

Ecuador, boasting talents like Chelsea's Moises Caicedo and former Premier League striker Enner Valencia, couldn't find the net for an equalizer. This victory not only added three points to Argentina's tally in the FIFA World Cup qualifiers but also marked a significant achievement for Messi. With this goal, he equaled the record set by Uruguayan forward Luis Suarez for the most goals scored in South American World Cup qualifiers, both standing at 29 goals.

Reflecting on Argentina's performance and the challenges ahead, Messi commented, "It was shown in the two friendlies and today, by the points, that this group is not going to relax beyond what it achieved. It was historic, extraordinary. We know that, if we go down a little, they will pass us over. There are going to be tough matches like this. Defeats, surely. We have to be as we are now, with our feet on the ground. Fight every game as we have been fighting since Scaloni started with all this."

Argentina's next challenge in the ongoing international break is against Bolivia, scheduled for next week at La Paz's Estadio Hernando Siles.

On a side note, Messi's recent move from Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) to Major League Soccer (MLS) side Inter Miami has been nothing short of spectacular. He clinched the Golden Boot award in Inter Miami's maiden Leagues Cup victory, finishing the tournament with an impressive 10 goals in seven matches.