Argentina vs Ecuador Copa America 2024 quarterfinals: Preview ...
The Copa America 2024 quarterfinals are set to deliver an exhilarating showdown as Argentina takes on Ecuador at the NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas. Argentina, the defending champions and Group A leaders, will face Ecuador, who secured the second spot in Group B after a pivotal draw against Mexico.
Argentina enters the knockout stage with a flawless record from the group phase, having won all their matches. Their dominant performance has elevated expectations for Lionel Scaloni’s squad, which is brimming with talent and experience. Lionel Messi, recovering from a minor injury, is expected to start in this crucial match. Messi, who has yet to score in the tournament despite creating numerous chances and providing assists, aims to lead his team to victory alongside young talent Julián Álvarez and veteran Ángel Di María.
Ecuador, under the guidance of Félix Sánchez, demonstrated resilience and tactical discipline to advance from a fiercely competitive group. Key player Willian Pacho, a standout defender, has been instrumental in Ecuador’s progression, showcasing his ability to thwart attacks and maintain composure without receiving any bookings.
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Kick-Off:
Friday, 5 July at 2:00 AM UK
Friday, 5 July at 6:30 AM IST
Location:
NRG Stadium, Houston, Texas
Team Form
Argentina (in all competitions): W-W-W-W-W
Ecuador (in all competitions): D-W-L-W-W
Lionel Messi (Argentina)
Messi is anticipated to start the quarterfinal match after being rested due to injury in the final group game. While he has not scored yet in Copa America 2024, his playmaking abilities and leadership are crucial for Argentina’s success. Fans and teammates will look to Messi to deliver his trademark magic and contribute goals in the knockout stage.
Willian Pacho (Ecuador)
The 1.87m young defender has been a rock in Ecuador’s backline, playing every minute of the group stage. Known for his error-free defending and clean tackles, Pacho’s presence will be vital in containing Argentina’s formidable attack. His performance will be key to Ecuador’s hopes of advancing further in the tournament.
Argentina vs Ecuador SquadsArgentina
Alexis Mac Allister, Ángel Di María, Enzo Fernández, Exequiel Palacios, Giovani Lo Celso, Guido Rodríguez, Leandro Paredes, Rodrigo De Paul, Valentín Carboni, Alejandro Garnacho, Julián Álvarez, Lautaro Martínez, Lionel Messi, Nicolás González, Emiliano Martínez, Franco Armani, Gerónimo Rulli, Cristian Romero, Germán Pezzella, Gonzalo Montiel, Lisandro Martínez, Lucas Martínez Quarta, Marcos Acuña, Nahuel Molina, Nicolás Otamendi, Nicolás Tagliafico.
Head coach: Lionel Scaloni
Ecuador
Willian Pacho, Alan Franco, Alan Minda, Ángel Mena, Carlos Gruezo, Janner Corozo, Jeremy Sarmiento, Joao Ortiz, John Yeboah, José Cifuentes, Kendry Páez, Moisés Caicedo, Enner Valencia, Jordy Caicedo, Kevin Rodríguez, Alexander Domínguez, Hernán Galíndez, Moisés Ramírez, Andrés Hurtado, Andrés Micolta, Ángelo Preciado, Félix Torres, Jackson Porozo, Joel Ordóñez, Layan Loor, Piero Hincapié.
Head coach: Félix Sánchez Bas
