Barça forward Messi scored the only goal in the 1-0 victory over Ecuador
Argentina captain Lionel Messi scored the only goal of the game in Thursday's World Cup qualifying win against Ecuador. The Barcelona forward says the performance could have been better but the "important thing was to start with a win" as the campaign to reach Qatar 2022 got underway in South America.
"We know how tough the qualifiers are so it was important to start with a win," Messi said. "All the games will be tough. We hoped to play a bit better but it's normal, it's been a long time since we played together.
"The key was the win and now we have to work hard to keep growing as we move towards the Copa America. Ecuador made it difficult to play out from the back and we were a bit anxious and rushed things.
"It was a complicated year for everyone, above all because of the pandemic. To be able to win and give some joy to the fans is positive. I want to send my best wishes to all Argentines because it's a really difficult moment for everyone."
