Ecuador celebrated a vital victory on September 9, edging Argentina 1-0 in a World Cup qualifier at Guayaquil’s Estadio Monumental Banco Pichincha.
The decisive moment came from the penalty spot, where Ecuador coolly converted to claim all three points against the reigning world champions.
#Eliminatorias | #Ecuador vs #Argentina |
¡Final del partido en Guayaquil!
Por la última fecha de Eliminatorias Conmebol, Argentina perdió como visitante por 1 a 0 frente a Ecuador. pic.twitter.com/5T3TjKnFEe
— Sol Play 91.5 (@SolPlay915) September 10, 2025
The win underlines Ecuador’s defensive and tactical strength. Having conceded only five goals in 17 games, they once again showed discipline at the back, shutting out Argentina’s attacking threats.
With Lionel Messi absent from the lineup, Argentina looked less fluid going forward. Lautaro Martínez led the front line but was unable to break through Ecuador’s organized defense.
For the hosts, 17-year-old prodigy Kendry Páez stole the spotlight. His composure, vision, and link-up play kept Argentina under pressure, fueling excitement about his future. Ecuador’s fans roared with every touch, seeing in Páez a leader for the next generation.
¡Penal para Ecuador y Enner Valencia lo convierte en el 1-0 sobre Argentina! 🇪🇨 ⚽️ pic.twitter.com/N0VVnwQ184
— ESPN Deportes (@ESPNDeportes) September 10, 2025
The result moves Ecuador further up the table, strengthening their playoff chances while boosting confidence after a run of solid performances. Argentina, still comfortable at the top with 38 points, saw their perfect run interrupted but remain on course for qualification.
¡IMPACTO EN LA TRI! 😱
🟥 Moisés Caicedo expulsado en el duelo de Ecuador 🇪🇨 vs. Argentina 🇦🇷. Una baja clave que lo deja fuera del debut en la Copa del Mundo. 🌎⚽
¡Sigue el partido en Radio Atalaya 680 AM! 📻💪 #Eliminatorias #LaTri pic.twitter.com/VT4fgiP2Wg
— Radio Atalaya 680 AM (@680radioatalaya) September 10, 2025
Historically, Argentina has dominated the head-to-head with a 12-5-3 record. But Ecuador’s rise under Sebastián Beccacece is changing the narrative. With this win, they are unbeaten in nine matches, proving they are no longer just a tough opponent but a genuine contender in South America.
In Ghana, fans followed the match closely, especially noting Messi’s absence and Páez’s dazzling display. Many drew comparisons to Mohammed Kudus, seeing echoes of the Black Stars’ playmaker in the young Ecuadorian star.
Ecuador’s penalty victory was more than just three points. It was a statement that their growing belief and talent can unsettle even the biggest names in world football.
