‘This team will be difficult to beat’

Argentina humiliated South American neighbours Ecuador 6-1 in an International Friendly in Spain on Sunday.

The Argentines made six changes from Wednesday’s 2-2 draw against Germany in German Pezzella, Walter Kannemann, Marcos Acuna, Nicolas Gonzalez, Lucas Ocampos and Lucas Alario.

The Albiceleste broke the deadlock four minutes later after Alario rose above two challenges to head beyond the reach of Pedro Ortiz following a corner.

A stroke of good fortune on 27 minutes doubled Argentina’s tally with Jhon Izquierdo firing into his own net whilst attempting a clearance.

Ecuador couldn’t get out of the woods as Martinez went down under a challenge from Dario Aimar six minutes later, resulting in a spot kick which Leandro Paredes tucked away for Argentina’s third.

Ecuador reduced the arrears four minutes from the halftime break after a freekick from Angel Mena nestled over the wall and into the far post.

A potential turnaround was waved away within 66 minutes after Pezzella guided home Dybala’s free-kick from an unguarded position.

Ecuador struggled to contain the Argentines who grabbed a fifth eight minutes to full-time after Nicolas Dominguez capitalised on a Rodriguez assist for an easy conversion.

The two-time World champions finished in style after Ocampos reacted sharply to a rebound from Ortiz 86 minutes in for a neat finish.

“No one is unbeatable but this is a national team that will be difficult to beat,” said Argentina boss Lionel Scaloni after the match.

Scaloni went on to explain the absences of Sergio Aguero and Lionel Messi.

“Messi is not here due to suspension. Sergio Aguero is not here because he’s been carrying a problem and has not been training 100 per cent with his club [Manchester City]. Surely both will be here next month.”