Argentina ended their South American qualifying campaign for the 2026 World Cup with a 1-0 defeat to Ecuador in Guayaquil on 10 September, in a match marked by red cards, VAR controversy and an emotional farewell for Enner Valencia.
The decisive moment came in first-half stoppage time. Nicolás Tagliafico was adjudged, after a VAR review, to have caught Ángelo Preciado with a raised arm inside the box. Valencia, making his 100th international appearance and playing his final competitive home game for Ecuador, converted from the spot with a calm strike down the middle.
Earlier, Argentina’s problems had begun in the 31st minute when Nicolás Otamendi was shown a straight red card for pushing Valencia from behind as he ran through on goal. The dismissal means the veteran defender will miss Argentina’s opening match at the World Cup, as suspensions carry over from qualifying.
The second half started with more controversy as Moisés Caicedo was sent off for a foul on Nico González, leaving both teams with 10 men. González had already been in the wars after suffering a blow to the face from Piero Hincapié, an incident that only brought a yellow card.
Lionel Scaloni introduced Julián Álvarez, Franco Mastantuono, Nahuel Molina and Giovani Lo Celso in search of an equaliser. Lo Celso came closest with a deflected shot, but Ecuador, marshalled by Willian Pacho at the back, held firm. Goalkeeper Hernán Galíndez was rarely troubled as Argentina struggled to create clear chances.
Despite the setback, Argentina had already secured qualification weeks in advance and finished comfortably top of the standings. Lionel Messi was rested, while Cristian Romero missed out through suspension.
For Ecuador, led by Argentine coach Sebastián Beccacece himself absent from the bench due to suspension the victory capped off a successful campaign and provided the perfect stage to honour their captain Valencia, who received a tribute and ovation from a sold-out Monumental stadium crowd before kick-off.
