Argentina's defense of their Copa America title has been going smoothly so far, and they are expected to have a relatively easy match against Ecuador in the quarter-finals.
The reigning champions won all three of their group stage games against Canada, Chile, and Peru without conceding a single goal, and are likely to comfortably defeat Ecuador in the upcoming match.
Ecuador secured their spot in the quarter-finals with a respectable 0-0 draw against Mexico, following victories over Jamaica. While they may initially put up a fight, it is anticipated that Lionel Messi and his teammates will showcase their skills in the second half to advance to the next round.
Team Updates
Messi sat out the last group stage match as a precaution due to minor hamstring concerns. However, the Inter Miami star has since trained without issues and is expected to play against Ecuador.
Several players, including Alexis Mac Allister, Julian Alvarez, and Rodrigo De Paul, were rested in the last game and are likely to return to the starting lineup under coach Lionel Scaloni's guidance.
Ecuador is expected to field the same lineup that faced Mexico, with Moises Caicedo and Alan Franco in midfield. Enner Valencia, Ecuador's all-time leading goal scorer, will lead the attacking line with 41 international goals to his name.
Match Stats
The teams faced each other in a pre-tournament friendly on June 10, which Argentina won 1-0.
In their 40 previous encounters, Argentina has emerged victorious 24 times, while Ecuador has won on five occasions, with 11 draws between them.
This match is a repeat of the 2021 Copa America quarter-final, which Argentina won 3-0.
Argentina has won their last eight matches, showcasing their strong form.
Ecuador has won four out of their last eight games, with three losses and one draw during that period.
Prediction
Argentina has navigated through the tournament with ease, winning all their matches without conceding a goal. While they may not have hit their peak form yet, their quality lineup, featuring Messi, Mac Allister, and Alvarez, sets them apart from most teams in the competition.
Ecuador will initially look to contain Argentina and might find some success in the first half. However, Argentina has shown a trend of scoring in the second half, highlighting their ability to dominate as the game progresses.
It is likely that Argentina, with their experience and talent, will assert their dominance in the second half and secure a victory against Ecuador in Houston.