![Half-Time Update: Argentina leads 1-0 against Ecuador with a goal from Lionel Messi’s corner kick](https://a57.foxsports.com/statics.foxsports.com/www.foxsports.com/content/uploads/2024/07/1408/814/2024-07-04_Copa-Live-Blog_Argentina-vs-Ecuador_16x9.jpg?ve=1&tl=1)
The Battle of Champions: Argentina and Ecuador Clash in Highly Anticipated Copa América Quarterfinal
On Thursday, the Copa América action continued as defending champions Argentina faced off against CONMEBOL rival Ecuador in the quarterfinals at NRG Stadium in Houston. The game was broadcast live on FOX. Lionel Messi, who missed his team’s final group stage game against Peru due to a right leg injury, was set to start for Argentina. Reports from local media indicated that the 37-year-old captain would decide how long he played in the match.
The game promised to be filled with thrilling moments as both teams battled it out on the field. Enzo Fernández missed another chance early in the game, while Messi set up Argentina’s first goal. The match quickly became physical, with the first card being shown shortly after. Argentina had a close opportunity to score, while Ecuador applied pressure with an early chance of their own.
Live coverage of the game began at 8:45am ET and captured all the action as Argentina faced off against Ecuador in this high-stakes quarterfinal matchup. Fans can expect a competitive and exciting match as these two teams vied for a spot in the semifinals of the tournament.