Argentina defeats Ecuador 1-0 in Copa America warmup match with Di Maria scoring the winning goal
- Angel Di Maria scored the only goal in Argentina's 1-0 victory over Ecuador in a Copa America warmup match.
- Lionel Messi returned to the international stage after six months.
- Argentina's win sets a positive tone for their upcoming defense of the Copa America crown.
Angel Di Maria scored the only goal as Argentina defeated Ecuador 1-0 in a Copa America warmup match. Lionel Messi returned to the international stage after six months, coming on as a substitute in the 56th minute. Di Maria's goal, assisted by Christian Romero, marked his second consecutive goal in international matches. Argentina, the reigning World Cup and Copa America champion, maintained its unbeaten streak against Ecuador. Messi's absence in the first half was due to a right hamstring injury. Argentina's head coach, Lionel Scaloni, emphasized the importance of taking care of players to ensure optimal conditions. The team will continue its preparations with a match against Guatemala before the Copa America opener against Canada. Ecuador will face Bolivia and Honduras in friendly matches before their Copa America campaign begins against Venezuela.