Argentina vs Ecuador: Messi scores stunning free-kick to secure victory

Argentina beat Ecuador 1-0 in a pre-Copa America friendly match

Lionel Messi scored the only goal of the game with a stunning free-kick in the first half

Argentina beat Ecuador 1-0 in a pre-Copa America friendly match at Soldier Field on Saturday night. Lionel Messi scored the only goal of the game with a stunning free-kick in the first half.

The Albiceleste dominated the match from start to finish and created several chances to score. However, they were unable to find the back of the net until Messi stepped up to take a free-kick just outside the box in the 30th minute.

Messi curled the ball over the Ecuadorian wall and into the top corner of the net, giving goalkeeper Alexander Dominguez no chance. It was a moment of brilliance from the Barcelona superstar, who has now scored 69 goals for his country.

Argentina continued to press for more goals in the second half, but Ecuador defended resolutely and managed to keep them at bay.

The victory gives Argentina a boost of confidence ahead of the Copa America, which begins next week. The Albiceleste are one of the favorites to win the tournament, and they will be hoping to add to their record-breaking 14 titles.