In the South American World Cup qualifiers, reigning champions Argentina kicked off their campaign on Thursday with a 1-0 win against Ecuador, courtesy of a trademark, beautifully curled free kick by Lionel Messi.
Meanwhile, the arduous journey of South American teams vying for a spot in the 2026 World Cup saw Colombia triumph over Venezuela with a 1-0 scoreline, while Peru managed to secure a hard-fought 0-0 draw against Paraguay despite being a man down.
Despite not confirming his commitment to the national side until 2026, Messi, who led Argentina to their third World Cup triumph in Qatar last December, underscored his significance once more. He broke through in a match that had the potential to be a frustrating night for Lionel Scaloni's team.
In the 78th minute, Lautaro Martinez earned a free-kick in a central position just outside the Ecuador penalty area. Messi executed it flawlessly, his effort sailing over the wall and dipping perfectly to elude the motionless Hernan Galindez.
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Messi's goal brought him on par with his former Barcelona teammate, Uruguay's Luis Suarez, as the joint all-time leading scorers in South American qualifiers, each boasting 29 goals.
The Albiceleste controlled possession throughout the match, while Ecuador adopted a defensive approach, focusing on counterattacks. Their forays into Argentina's half were infrequent.
In the 16th minute, the first notable chance of the game presented itself to Messi. Positioned on the edge of the box, he attempted a side-footed shot, but it veered wide of the post.
Just before the break, Lautaro Martinez went closer when he slid in to meet a Rodrigo De Paul and his shot struck the post.
Messi worked himself an opening in the 69th minute but his low shot was weakly struck and was comfortably dealt with by Galindez.
But the 80 000 crowd in the Estadio Monumental were brought to their feet by Messi's goal and from then on it was smooth sailing for Argentina.
De Paul, who was excellent throughout, dribbled across from the right setting up substitute Angel Di Maria but his effort was just wide.
Then De Paul brought a fine save out of Galindez near the end with a close-range blast at the near post.
A 46th minute header from Rafael Santos Borre, from a pinpoint Jhon Arias cross, was enough to earn three points for Colombia in Barranquilla.
The victory ensured a winning start for new Colombia coach, Argentine Nestor Lorenzo, who was taking charge of his first competitive game.
Colombia failed to qualify for last year's World Cup in Qatar while Venezuela are hoping to earn their first ever appearance in a World Cup finals.
Peru's difficult task in Ciudad del Este became harder after they lost defender Luis Advíncula on the stroke of halftime when he was dismissed for a second yellow card.
But they held on for a point in what was a pulsating, high-tempo encounter.
The qualification process for the expanded 48-team World Cup, to be held in the United States, Canada and Mexico, offers two extra places for South America with six teams qualifying directly.
The seventh out of the 10 nations will head to an inter-continental play-off.
On Friday, five-times World Cup winners Brazil face Bolivia while Uruguay host Chile.
