Lionel Messi explains why he asked to be replaced against Ecuador

BeSoccer 1 year ago 11k
Messi reassured about his fitness after coming off before injury time. EFE

Speaking in the mixed zone after Argentina's 1-0 win over Ecuador, Lionel Messi was reassuring about his fitness after coming off before injury time.

On Matchday 1 of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, reigning world champions Argentina beat Ecuador 1-0. Lionel Messi's superb free-kick from the edge of the area, gave the Albiceleste victory.

However, some fans were concerned that the Argentinian asked for a substitution before the final whistle, something that Lionel Scaloni confirmed at a press conference.

This is why Messi reassured Argentina and Inter Miami fans in the mixed zone, explaining why he had asked to be substituted: "I was a bit tired. It just happened and it probably won't be the last time I come off during a match. But I felt very good, even though it was very difficult to play."

With this goal, the Argentinian equalled his former team-mate and friend Luis Suarez as the player with the most goals (29) in South American qualifiers. "It's a pleasure to be there, both of us, with everything that the qualifiers mean to us," said the Barcelona legend.

Mentioned in the news story

S. America WC Qual.
Argentina
L. Messi
Inter Miami