Lionel Messi's return to the national team sparks excitement as Argentina's World Cup title defense begins
Lionel Messi, the iconic football sensation who recently steered Argentina to World Cup victory in 2022, is making a highly anticipated return to the field tonight. This time, he's adorned in the blue and white jersey, spearheading Argentina's campaign towards the 2026 World Cup. Their challengers in this crucial qualifying match: Ecuador. In this article, we will explore the intricacies of this eagerly awaited showdown, Messi's recent accomplishments, and the avenues to witness this thrilling encounter online.
Kick-off at the Estadio Más Monumental
The match everyone has been waiting for will unfold at the Estadio Más Monumental in Buenos Aires, Argentina. The kick-off is scheduled for 8 p.m. ET, marking a momentous occasion for football enthusiasts worldwide. Fresh from his impressive stint with the MLS team Inter Miami, Messi aims to continue his enchanting performance on the global stage.
How to Watch Messi and Argentina vs. Ecuador? TV and Online Streaming
For viewers in the United States, Telemundo will broadcast the Argentina vs. Ecuador match. Moreover, for those who prefer online streaming, ViX offers a live stream option. This ensures that you won't miss a single moment of Messi's genius as he graces the field for Argentina once more.
Messi's Dedication to International Duty
Messi's commitment to the national team extends to two crucial World Cup qualifying matches this month. Following the showdown with Ecuador, he will stand by the Argentine squad for their second qualifying match against Bolivia on September 12th at the Estadio Hernando Siles in La Paz, Bolivia. His unwavering presence underscores his allegiance to the Argentinian cause.
Impact on Inter Miami
Dedicated Inter Miami supporters might be disappointed to learn that Messi will be absent for their upcoming match against Sporting Kansas City. His participation in both of Argentina's games could potentially influence his availability for Inter Miami's encounter with Atlanta United on September 16th.
Messi's Last Triumph with Argentina
In the unforgettable 2022 World Cup final last December, Messi demonstrated his exceptional prowess by netting two pivotal goals, including a decisive penalty, in a riveting contest against France that culminated in a 3-3 draw (4-2 in penalty kicks). This triumph solidified Argentina's position as world champions, and Messi rightfully earned the Golden Ball as the tournament's outstanding player.
What Lies Ahead for Messi in International Football?
The question looming in the minds of football enthusiasts is whether Messi, at the age of 36, will continue representing Argentina in the 2024 Copa America and the 2026 World Cup. In a July interview, Messi remarked, "Even I don't know when. It'll happen when it happens." His future with the national team remains uncertain, yet Argentina's coach, Lionel Scaloni, remains optimistic about Messi's potential involvement in the upcoming World Cup.
Argentina's Prospects in 2026 World Cup Qualifying
With a footballing giant like Argentina, expectations are naturally high. The expansion of the World Cup format for 2026 dictates that six South American teams will directly qualify for the tournament, while a seventh team will partake in the FIFA playoff tournament. Given Argentina's rich football heritage, they are strong contenders to secure a coveted spot in the World Cup once again.
Life Changes Since the World Cup Victory
Since clinching the World Cup victory, Messi's journey has led him to Paris Saint-Germain, where he played a pivotal role in securing consecutive French Ligue 1 titles. Despite his success in France, the Champions League campaign concluded in the Round of 16 stage in March. In June, Messi made a monumental decision to join David Beckham's Inter Miami in the MLS, a choice he described as a carefully considered move, unlike his abrupt departure from Barcelona.
Messi's Impact with Inter Miami
Messi's influence in Inter Miami's colors has been nothing short of extraordinary. With eight goals and two assists in his first 11 games, Messi has been a driving force behind Inter Miami's impeccable 10-1-0 record since his arrival in late July. He played a pivotal role in guiding the club to victory in the Leagues Cup in August and is primed for another significant showdown in the U.S. Open Cup final against the Houston Dynamo on September 27th. However, in the MLS playoff race, Inter Miami faces a challenging climb, currently trailing eight points behind ninth-place D.C. United in the Eastern Conference.
Where to View Argentina vs. Ecuador on US Television
For viewers in the United States, here are the pertinent details on where you can tune in to watch the Argentina vs. Ecuador match on television and through legal streaming options:
- WHO: Argentina vs. Ecuador
- WHAT: CONMEBOL 2026 World Cup Qualifying
- WHEN: 8:00 PM ET / 5:00 PM PT • Thursday, September 7, 2023
- WHERE: Telemundo, Fubo, DirecTV Stream, ViX
With Fubo, you can savor this thrilling encounter and access a plethora of other games via legal streaming services. Whether you opt to watch on your computer, smartphone, tablet, Roku, Apple TV, or Google Chromecast, Fubo has your entertainment needs covered.
Fubo's streaming service offers an expansive array of content, including Liga MX, World Cup, Women’s World Cup, MLS, UEFA Champions League, Europa League, Primeira Liga, Ligue Un, World Cup qualifiers, NWSL, select USMNT games, select USWNT games, select Mexico games, select England games, and much more.
The Fubo app seamlessly functions on various devices, including Windows PC, Mac, Apple iPhones, Android phones, Amazon Fire TV, Android Mobile, Android TV, Apple TV, Chromecast, Hisense TVs, iOS devices, LG TVs, Samsung Smart TVs, Vizio Smartcast TVs, and Xbox One.
Don't miss this enthralling World Cup qualifying match as Messi and Argentina embark on their quest towards the 2026 World Cup. Tune in and bear witness to the brilliance of football in action!
