- Date and Time: Wednesday, September 10, 2025, 00:00 GMT+1
- Venue: Estadio Monumental Banco Pichincha, Guayaquil, Ecuador
| Odds via 22Bet | |
| Ecuador vs Argentina | Wednesday, September 10, 2025, 00:00 GMT+1 |
| Ecuador odds | 3.24 |
| Argentina odds | 2.45 |
| Draw | 2.96 |
| Over\Under | Total 2.5: 2.74\2.45 |
| Betting Bonus | Up to 122 $/€ |
Ecuador vs Argentina Preview and Team News
Ecuador Team News
Over the last few years, Ecuador have evolved into a team that controls matches through possession, a stark contrast to their historical identity as a counter-attacking force.
The statistics are impressive: their defence record is the best in CONMEBOL, having conceded only five goals in the World Cup 2026 Qualification. The last successful performances are based on the exceptional skills of players like Arsenal’s Piero Hincapié and Chelsea’s Moisés Caicedo. Together, they form the core of a young, dynamic, and technically talented squad.
However, Ecuador’s newfound dominance has not consistently translated into victories. In their latest match, they played to a 0-0 draw against Paraguay, which reflects their overall campaign. They controlled the ball for long periods but struggled to break down a well-organised defence.
📊🔢 Las estadísticas @EcuabetOficial del partido.
• #ParaguayEcuador • #Eliminatorias26 • pic.twitter.com/NIgjQdUVue
— La Tri 🇪🇨 (@LaTri) September 5, 2025
This was their fourth consecutive draw, a run with a lack of clinical play in the final third. Veteran forward Enner Valencia remains their main threat, but the supporting players have struggled to convert possession into goal-scoring opportunities.
Coach Sebastián Beccacece is unlikely to make big changes, as he may want to test his preferred system against the best in the world.
The physical condition of his players will be crucial. Their high-energy pressing style is demanding, and playing at home provides an advantage.
⏱ 85′ | 🇵🇾0️⃣-0️⃣🇪🇨
• #ParaguayEcuador • #Eliminatorias26 • pic.twitter.com/XYWEmuOi6l
— La Tri 🇪🇨 (@LaTri) September 5, 2025
There are no new injury concerns or suspensions, giving Beccacece a full squad to choose from. The only doubt is about Moises Caicedo, who didn’t play against Paraguay due to physical conditions.
Ecuador predicted lineup vs Argentina (4-2-3-1): Galíndez; Preciado, Pacho, Hincapié, Estupiñán; Caicedo, Vite; Plata, Páez, Yeboah; Valencia.
Argentina Team News
Argentina arrive in Guayaquil as the clear champions of South America. They’ve confidently navigated the qualifiers, securing the top position with games remaining.
La Albiceleste took a convincing 3-0 victory over Venezuela in Buenos Aires, marking an emotional farewell for Lionel Messi in what was expected to be his final home qualifier. The superstar scored two goals, displayed impressive sharpness and motivation, putting to rest any doubts regarding his commitment.
Argentina’s strength is in their solid defence, led by Cristian Romero and Nicolás Otamendi. They also showed impressive attacking capabilities by scoring 31 goals during the qualification process, which sets them apart from other teams.
#SelecciónMayor AURA 💫 GOAT pic.twitter.com/ZHBUUGYPUh
— 🇦🇷 Selección Argentina ⭐⭐⭐ (@Argentina) September 5, 2025
Coach Lionel Scaloni often employs a 4-2-2-2 system where full-backs provide width, allowing midfielders and forwards to move inside and create overloads in centre zones. This strategy was clearly used in their match against Venezuela, where they dominated in the middle of the pitch.
For this trip, Scaloni has a few selection problems. Enzo Fernández is suspended for two games by FIFA following a red card. Paulo Dybala is also out alongside Lisandro Martínez and Facundo Medina.
However, this opens the door for others. Scaloni included youngsters like Franco Mastantuono and Thiago Almada in the squad.
Additionally, Messi and Scaloni agreed that he would rest and not travel to Guayaquil. He continues his recovery from a recent injury and focuses on managing his fitness for upcoming matches.
Argentina predicted lineup vs Ecuador (4-2-2-2): Martínez; Molina, Romero, Otamendi, Tagliafico; De Paul, Paredes; Mastantuono, Almada; Martínez, Álvarez.
Ecuador vs Argentina Prediction
- Pick: Ecuador won’t lose
- Odds: 1.58 (22Bet)
- Score prediction: Ecuador 0-0 Argentina
It’s highly likely that Ecuador will try in this match to deny space for Argentina in the centre of the pitch. Caicedo (if he plays) and Pedro Vite can disrupt the play of the opponent’s midfielders and neutralise their main strengths.
Argentina, in the post-Messi era (on Wednesday), will need to prove their system is as much a star as its individual components. The movement and interplay between Álvarez, Thiago Almada, and likely Mastantuono will be key.
As a result, a draw is likely. Ecuador will be defensively strong and highly motivated, making them difficult to defeat at home.
Ecuador vs Argentina Prediction, Betting Tip
- Pick: Total Under 2.5
- Odds: 1.45 (22Bet)
Both teams have conceded the fewest goals in the qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup in South America.
Argentina are no longer motivated to win at all costs and probably won’t break through Ecuador’s reliable defence.
The hosts have conceded only two goals and haven’t lost in 8 home games, so they will be very driven to show another solid defensive performance. However, Ecuador may lack the resources to score more than one goal against Argentina, just as guests will likely battle to net more than one ball.
We can expect a low-scoring match.
Disclaimer: The content provided on this page, including all football predictions, odds, and related information, is for entertainment and informational purposes only. While we strive to ensure accuracy and timeliness, we do not guarantee the correctness or reliability of any predictions, data, or information presented here.
Make sure to bet on Ecuador vs Argentina with our 22Bet Sportsbook!
