Frank Christian
In the first quarterfinal of the 2024 Copa America, Argentina faced Ecuador at Houston on July 4. Argentina, the defending champions, topped Group A without conceding a goal in the group stage. However, concerns about captain Lionel Messi’s injury loomed over their performance in this match. Ecuador, on the other hand, secured a spot in the knockout stages by finishing level on points with Mexico in Group B, with a better goal difference.
Ecuador, considered the underdogs in this match, boasted talent like Kendry Paez in their squad, capable of causing an upset against the strong Argentine side.
Follow the live updates of the Argentina vs. Ecuador game for score updates, commentary, and highlights.
Half-Time Score: Argentina 1-0 Ecuador
| Half-Time | Goal Scorers | |
| Argentina | 1 | Li. Martinez 35′ |
| Ecuador | 0 |
Venue: NRG Stadium, Houston
Referee: Andres Matonte (URU)
Starting Lineups:
Argentina (4-3-3, right to left): 23. E. Martinez (GK) — 26. Molina, 13. Romero, 25. Li. Martinez, 3. Tagliafico — 24. Fernandez, 7. De Paul, 20. Mac Allister — 10 Messi, 15. Gonzalez, 22. La. Martinez
Ecuador (4-2-3-1, right to left): 22. Dominguez (GK) — 17. Preciado, 2. Torres, 6. Pacho, 3. Hincapie — 21. Franco, 23. M. Caicedo — 8. Gruezo, 10. Paez, 16. Sarmiento — 13. Valencia.
Argentina vs. Ecuador Live Updates and Highlights
Half-Time: Argentina 1-0 Ecuador. Lisandro Martinez’s goal gives Argentina the lead at halftime. Despite missed chances by Ecuador, Martinez capitalized on a well-executed play set up by Alexis McAllister.
46th min: Stoppage in play as McAllister receives treatment after a collision. Game resumes.
45th min: Two minutes of added time.
42nd min: Chance – Argentina. Argentina applies pressure as they seek another goal before halftime.
40th min: Ecuador faces an uphill battle after conceding despite earlier chances to take the lead.
35th min: GOAL! ARGENTINA! Lisandro Martinez heads in the corner to score, assisted by McAllister.
*Watch in USA
34th min: Chance – Argentina. Fernandez’s shot is blocked for a corner after a promising play.
32nd min: Argentina dominates possession, while Ecuador creates more chances.
28th min: Valencia receives treatment, disrupting Argentina’s momentum.
27th min: Chance – Argentina. Fernandez’s header goes wide.
26th min: Despite possession, Ecuador poses a threat with their opportunities.
23rd min: Messi’s impact in the game is yet to be felt.
22nd min: Argentina presses Ecuador’s defense.
20th min: Learn more about Kendry Paez from The Sporting News.
19th min: Ecuador creates dangerous chances on the counter-attack.
16th min: Chance – Ecuador. Sarmiento’s shot is saved by Martinez.
12th min: Chance – Ecuador. Martinez blocks Paez’s shot after an earlier chance for Sarmiento.
11th min: Ecuador with the first corner, threatening from the left side.
9th min: Caicedo receives treatment as Ecuador looks for counter-attacks.
7th min: Chance – Ecuador. Caicedo’s shot is saved by Martinez.
6th min: Argentina faces a tough test against Ecuador.
The game unfolds with Argentina’s early dominance. Ecuador chooses to sit back and observe as Argentina moves the ball around confidently on the pitch. In the opening minutes, De Paul sets up Lautaro, but Ecuador’s defense manages to clear the danger. The action continues as Gonzalez regains possession and sets up Lautaro again, yet he struggles to control the ball.
The match kicks off at NRG Stadium with a full house eagerly awaiting the clash between Argentina and Ecuador. A notable mention goes to Ecuador’s rising star Kendry Paez, showcasing his talents at the tournament. Fans pack the stadium with anticipation, wondering if Argentina’s star-studded team can secure a spot in the semis or if Ecuador will cause an upset.
Major territories around the world tune in as the Copa America match between Argentina and Ecuador commences. Lionel Messi leads the Argentine side with Lautaro Martinez upfront. The starting lineups are eagerly anticipated as Messi looks to showcase his fitness after recovering from a hamstring issue. Players like Alexis Mac Allister, Rodrigo De Paul, and Julian Alvarez are expected to return to the starting XI alongside Messi.
Fans eagerly await the confirmation of the team lineups, with Messi’s presence crucial for Argentina. The quarterfinal match takes place at NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas, offering a seating capacity of 72,220. As excitement builds, images of legends Lionel Messi and Diego Maradona adorn flags outside the stadium, adding to the atmosphere.
As the game approaches, discussions focus on Messi’s fitness and his potential impact on the match against Ecuador. With key players set to return to the lineup, Argentina aims to maintain its winning momentum. Lautaro Martinez’s impressive form adds to Argentina’s attacking threat, with a projected lineup for the team shaping up.
The game between Argentina and Ecuador is a highlight of the Copa America quarterfinals. Football enthusiasts around the world eagerly anticipate the outcome of this exciting encounter. The match takes place at NRG Stadium with both teams aiming for a spot in the semifinals.Argentina vs. Ecuador: Key Players and Formation
Enner Valencia, Ecuador’s all-time top scorer, returned to the lineup after being suspended. He aims to make an impact with his 41 international goals. Kendry Paez, an attacking midfielder, and Jeremy Sarmiento, known for his athleticism, are key players. Alan Minda adds excitement upfront. Moises Caicedo and Piero Hincapie strengthen the team’s defense.
Ecuador’s starting lineup is projected as Dominguez, Preciado, Torres, Pacho, Hincapie, Franco, M. Caicedo, Minda, Paez, Sarmiento, and Valencia.
In terms of streaming and TV coverage, the match will be available on various channels and platforms worldwide. In the USA, FOX, Univision, and TUDN will broadcast the game, with streaming options on Fubo and other platforms. UK viewers can watch on Premier Sports Player, while TSN and RDS provide coverage in Canada. Optus Sport is the broadcaster in Australia.
However, for viewers in India, there is no official confirmation on broadcasting rights. Fans can resort to VPN services if the match is not available or if they are traveling abroad.
