Argentina's quest to win back-to-back Copa America titles kicks into high gear on Thursday, when the knockout stages begin with their faceoff with Ecuador.
The reigning champions are the heavy favorites in this matchup after winning each of their three games in the group stage, but Lionel Messi's fitness is a big talking point heading.
Argentina might have enough firepower in attack to survive Messi's absence if he cannot make it, but they will first have to take on an Ecuador side that rescued their Copa America campaign after a rough start.
Here's what you need to know before tuning in.
How to watch and odds
• Date: Thursday, July 4 | Time: 9 p.m. ET
• Location: NRG Stadium -- Houston, Texas
• TV: Fox | Live stream: Fubo (Try for free)
• Odds: Argentina -230; Draw +310; Ecuador +750
Argentina: Emiliano Martinez, Nahuel Molina, Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martinez, Nicolas Tagliafico, Rodrigo De Paul, Alexis Mac Allister, Enzo Fernandez, Nicolas Gonzalez, Lionel Messi, Julian Alvarez
Ecuador: Alexander Domínguez, Angelo Preciado, Felix Torres, Willian Pacho, Piero Hincapie, Alan Franco, Moises Caicedo, Kendry Paez, Jeremy Sarmiento, Kevin Rodriguez, Enner Valencia
Reigning champions Argentina go head-to-head with Ecuador at NRG Stadium in Houston on Thursday, with a spot in the Copa America 2024 semifinals at stake.
The Albiceleste won all of their three games to top Group A in the opening phase of this tournament. They did not concede across the three matches, winning their most recent fixture 2-0 against Peru.
Ecuador, meanwhile, finished level with Mexico on four points after the teams drew 0-0 in their Group B finale, but Felix Sanchez's side claimed a spot in the knockout stages thanks to their superior goal difference.
It is the second straight time that La Tri have qualified for the last eight of this tournament, while they have also advanced to the quarterfinals in three of the previous four Copa America events.
Argentina recorded a narrow 1-0 victory over Ecuador in a warm-up game for the tournament, while the most recent Copa America meeting between the two resulted in a 3-0 win in the last eight of the 2021 edition.
Lionel Messi could return to the starting lineup for Argentina’s Copa América quarterfinal match against Ecuador tonight.
Argentine news outlet TYCSports reported Thursday morning that Messi is in line to start the Ecuador match at Houston’s NRG Stadium after his performance in Wednesday’s practice.
“He finished yesterday's practice very well, and the captain feels good to start,” TYCSports insider Gaston Edul reported before the game.
Messi has continued to improve from a right groin/adductor strain in the last nine days. He sustained the injury in a 1-0 win over Chile on June 25, causing him to miss last Saturday’s 2-0 win against Peru in Miami.
Argentina hoped Messi would be healthy to return in the quarterfinal. It was just a matter if he would come off the bench as a substitute or start against Ecuador as his injury has trended positively during his brief recovery.
Here’s what you need to know as USA TODAY Sports provides live updates on the Argentina vs. Ecuador match Thursday night:
Argentina are favorites to retain their Copa America crown in July with Messi at the forefront of their trophy defense in the USA.
Scaloni's team have lost just once in the last 12 months, and they will be confident up against a dogged Ecuador side, with the tournament start edging ever closer.
Prediction: Argentina 2-1 Ecuador
Lionel Messi could return to the starting lineup for Argentina’s Copa América quarterfinal match against Ecuador tonight.
Argentine news outlet TYCSports reported Thursday morning that Messi is in line to start the Ecuador match at Houston’s NRG Stadium after his performance in Wednesday’s practice.
“He finished yesterday's practice very well, and the captain feels good to start,” TYCSports insider Gaston Edul reported before the game.
Messi has continued to improve from a right groin/adductor strain in the last nine days. He sustained the injury in a 1-0 win over Chile on June 25, causing him to miss last Saturday’s 2-0 win against Peru in Miami.
Argentina hoped Messi would be healthy to return in the quarterfinal. It was just a matter if he would come off the bench as a substitute or start against Ecuador as his injury has trended positively during his brief recovery.
Here’s what you need to know as USA TODAY Sports provides live updates on the Argentina vs. Ecuador match Thursday night:
Argentina forward Lionel Messi plays during a Copa America match at Mercedez-Benz Stadium in Atlanta on June 20, 2024.
What time is Argentina vs. Ecuador Copa América match?
The Argentina and Ecuador match begins at 9 p.m. ET (7 p.m. GALT and 8 p.m. ECT in Ecuador; 10 p.m. ART in Argentina).
How to watch Argentina vs. Ecuador on TV and live stream?
The Argentina vs. Ecuador match on Thursday will be broadcast by FOX (in English) and on Univision/TUDN (in Spanish).
FOX Sports will provide live streams for Copa América matches. Matches also can be streamed on Fubo. Vix will provide a streaming option for Spanish-language broadcasts.
How much will Messi play vs. Ecuador?
Messi’s playing time, in his return from injury, could be limited. It would be rash to push him for a full 90-minute match unless he wanted to play the entire match. But how much will Messi play?
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Messi’s potential to start could indicate he might be in for an early exit. One report indicates Messi could play just 45 minutes, or the first half, of the Ecuador match.
Argentina and Ecuador meet again in Copa América quarterfinals
Argentina beat Ecuador 3-0 in the quarterfinals en route to the final of Copa América 2021. Messi scored on a free kick and had two assists in the victory – his score and second assist coming after the 84th minute.
What did Argentina’s coach say about Messi?
Argentine coach Lionel Scaloni said Wednesday he would speak to Messi before the club’s practice to determine how much he will play in the Ecuador match.
“I think it’s fair to wait until the last moment,” Scaloni said, referring to Messi going through another practice Wednesday. “I think it’s fair that he should take is time and train as much as possible. So after the training, rather, before, I will talk to him and then we will make the decision.”
How has Messi progressed from injury?
Messi participated in his second full practice with his Argentine teammates in Houston on Wednesday night, one day after his first. He was a limited practice participant on Monday. Messi worked solely with a trainer since suffering the injury before his return to practice.
How has Messi performed during Copa América?
Messi had an assist in Argentina’s 2-0 win in their Copa América opener against Canada but is scoreless through two matches.
Who does Argentina/Ecuador winner face in Copa América semifinal?
The Argentina/Ecuador winner advances to a semifinal match against the winner of Friday’s Venezuela/Canada match. The semifinal will be played July 9 inside MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
When are the other Copa América quarterfinal matches?
Along with the Argentina-Ecuador match Thursday, the Copa América quarterfinals continue with one match Friday and conclude with two matches Saturday.
Venezuela and Canada will meet on Friday at 9 p.m. ET inside AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.
Colombia and Panama will play on Saturday at 6 p.m. ET inside State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona.
Uruguay and Brazil meet on Saturday at 9 p.m. inside Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas.
All of the matches will be broadcast on FS1 in English, Univision/TUDN in Spanish.
Odds to win 2024 Copa America
Argentina is the favorite to win the 2024 Copa América, according to BetMGM soccer odds. Looking to wager? Check out the best mobile sports betting apps offering 2024 sports betting promos. Here are the odds as of Thursday:
Argentina (+125)
Brazil (+333)
Colombia (+550)
Uruguay (+550)
Venezuela (+2500)
Ecuador (+3300)
Canada (+4000)
Panama (+10000)
We occasionally recommend interesting products and services. If you make a purchase by clicking one of the links, we may earn an affiliate fee. USA TODAY Network newsrooms operate independently, and this doesn’t influence our coverage.
Gannett may earn revenue from sports betting operators for audience referrals to betting services. Sports betting operators have no influence over nor are any such revenues in any way dependent on or linked to the newsrooms or news coverage. Terms apply, see operator site for Terms and Conditions. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, help is available. Call the National Council on Problem Gambling 24/7 at 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ, OH), 1-800-522-4700 (CO), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN). Must be 21 or older to gamble. Sports betting and gambling are not legal in all locations. Be sure to comply with laws applicable where you reside.
Argentina are favorites to retain their Copa America crown in July with Messi at the forefront of their trophy defense in the USA.
Scaloni's team have lost just once in the last 12 months, and they will be confident up against a dogged Ecuador side, with the tournament start edging ever closer.
Prediction: Argentina 2-1 Ecuador
Lionel Messi could return to the starting lineup for Argentina’s Copa América quarterfinal match against Ecuador tonight.
Argentine news outlet TYCSports reported Thursday morning that Messi is in line to start the Ecuador match at Houston’s NRG Stadium after his performance in Wednesday’s practice.
“He finished yesterday's practice very well, and the captain feels good to start,” TYCSports insider Gaston Edul reported before the game.
Messi has continued to improve from a right groin/adductor strain in the last nine days. He sustained the injury in a 1-0 win over Chile on June 25, causing him to miss last Saturday’s 2-0 win against Peru in Miami.
Argentina hoped Messi would be healthy to return in the quarterfinal. It was just a matter if he would come off the bench as a substitute or start against Ecuador as his injury has trended positively during his brief recovery.
Here’s what you need to know as USA TODAY Sports provides live updates on the Argentina vs. Ecuador match Thursday night:
Argentina forward Lionel Messi plays during a Copa America match at Mercedez-Benz Stadium in Atlanta on June 20, 2024.
What time is Argentina vs. Ecuador Copa América match?
The Argentina and Ecuador match begins at 9 p.m. ET (7 p.m. GALT and 8 p.m. ECT in Ecuador; 10 p.m. ART in Argentina).
How to watch Argentina vs. Ecuador on TV and live stream?
The Argentina vs. Ecuador match on Thursday will be broadcast by FOX (in English) and on Univision/TUDN (in Spanish).
FOX Sports will provide live streams for Copa América matches. Matches also can be streamed on Fubo. Vix will provide a streaming option for Spanish-language broadcasts.
How much will Messi play vs. Ecuador?
Messi’s playing time, in his return from injury, could be limited. It would be rash to push him for a full 90-minute match unless he wanted to play the entire match. But how much will Messi play?
Get the Sports newsletter in your inbox.
Sports news, no matter the season. Stop by for the scores, stay for the stories.
Messi’s potential to start could indicate he might be in for an early exit. One report indicates Messi could play just 45 minutes, or the first half, of the Ecuador match.
Argentina and Ecuador meet again in Copa América quarterfinals
Argentina beat Ecuador 3-0 in the quarterfinals en route to the final of Copa América 2021. Messi scored on a free kick and had two assists in the victory – his score and second assist coming after the 84th minute.
What did Argentina’s coach say about Messi?
Argentine coach Lionel Scaloni said Wednesday he would speak to Messi before the club’s practice to determine how much he will play in the Ecuador match.
“I think it’s fair to wait until the last moment,” Scaloni said, referring to Messi going through another practice Wednesday. “I think it’s fair that he should take is time and train as much as possible. So after the training, rather, before, I will talk to him and then we will make the decision.”
How has Messi progressed from injury?
Messi participated in his second full practice with his Argentine teammates in Houston on Wednesday night, one day after his first. He was a limited practice participant on Monday. Messi worked solely with a trainer since suffering the injury before his return to practice.
How has Messi performed during Copa América?
Messi had an assist in Argentina’s 2-0 win in their Copa América opener against Canada but is scoreless through two matches.
Who does Argentina/Ecuador winner face in Copa América semifinal?
The Argentina/Ecuador winner advances to a semifinal match against the winner of Friday’s Venezuela/Canada match. The semifinal will be played July 9 inside MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
When are the other Copa América quarterfinal matches?
Along with the Argentina-Ecuador match Thursday, the Copa América quarterfinals continue with one match Friday and conclude with two matches Saturday.
Venezuela and Canada will meet on Friday at 9 p.m. ET inside AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.
Colombia and Panama will play on Saturday at 6 p.m. ET inside State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona.
Uruguay and Brazil meet on Saturday at 9 p.m. inside Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas.
All of the matches will be broadcast on FS1 in English, Univision/TUDN in Spanish.
Odds to win 2024 Copa America
Argentina is the favorite to win the 2024 Copa América, according to BetMGM soccer odds. Looking to wager? Check out the best mobile sports betting apps offering 2024 sports betting promos. Here are the odds as of Thursday:
Argentina (+125)
Brazil (+333)
Colombia (+550)
Uruguay (+550)
Venezuela (+2500)
Ecuador (+3300)
Canada (+4000)
Panama (+10000)
We occasionally recommend interesting products and services. If you make a purchase by clicking one of the links, we may earn an affiliate fee. USA TODAY Network newsrooms operate independently, and this doesn’t influence our coverage.
Gannett may earn revenue from sports betting operators for audience referrals to betting services. Sports betting operators have no influence over nor are any such revenues in any way dependent on or linked to the newsrooms or news coverage. Terms apply, see operator site for Terms and Conditions. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, help is available. Call the National Council on Problem Gambling 24/7 at 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ, OH), 1-800-522-4700 (CO), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN). Must be 21 or older to gamble. Sports betting and gambling are not legal in all locations. Be sure to comply with laws applicable where you reside.
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Argentina's quest to win back-to-back Copa America titles kicks into high gear on Thursday, when the knockout stages begin with their faceoff with Ecuador.
The reigning champions are the heavy favorites in this matchup after winning each of their three games in the group stage, but Lionel Messi's fitness is a big talking point heading.
Argentina might have enough firepower in attack to survive Messi's absence if he cannot make it, but they will first have to take on an Ecuador side that rescued their Copa America campaign after a rough start.
Here's what you need to know before tuning in.
How to watch and odds
• Date: Thursday, July 4 | Time: 9 p.m. ET
• Location: NRG Stadium -- Houston, Texas
• TV: Fox | Live stream: Fubo (Try for free)
• Odds: Argentina -230; Draw +310; Ecuador +750
Argentina: Emiliano Martinez, Nahuel Molina, Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martinez, Nicolas Tagliafico, Rodrigo De Paul, Alexis Mac Allister, Enzo Fernandez, Nicolas Gonzalez, Lionel Messi, Julian Alvarez
Ecuador: Alexander Domínguez, Angelo Preciado, Felix Torres, Willian Pacho, Piero Hincapie, Alan Franco, Moises Caicedo, Kendry Paez, Jeremy Sarmiento, Kevin Rodriguez, Enner Valencia
Reigning champions Argentina go head-to-head with Ecuador at NRG Stadium in Houston on Thursday, with a spot in the Copa America 2024 semifinals at stake.
The Albiceleste won all of their three games to top Group A in the opening phase of this tournament. They did not concede across the three matches, winning their most recent fixture 2-0 against Peru.
Ecuador, meanwhile, finished level with Mexico on four points after the teams drew 0-0 in their Group B finale, but Felix Sanchez's side claimed a spot in the knockout stages thanks to their superior goal difference.
It is the second straight time that La Tri have qualified for the last eight of this tournament, while they have also advanced to the quarterfinals in three of the previous four Copa America events.
Argentina recorded a narrow 1-0 victory over Ecuador in a warm-up game for the tournament, while the most recent Copa America meeting between the two resulted in a 3-0 win in the last eight of the 2021 edition.
Lionel Messi could return to the starting lineup for Argentina’s Copa América quarterfinal match against Ecuador tonight.
Argentine news outlet TYCSports reported Thursday morning that Messi is in line to start the Ecuador match at Houston’s NRG Stadium after his performance in Wednesday’s practice.
“He finished yesterday's practice very well, and the captain feels good to start,” TYCSports insider Gaston Edul reported before the game.
Messi has continued to improve from a right groin/adductor strain in the last nine days. He sustained the injury in a 1-0 win over Chile on June 25, causing him to miss last Saturday’s 2-0 win against Peru in Miami.
Argentina hoped Messi would be healthy to return in the quarterfinal. It was just a matter if he would come off the bench as a substitute or start against Ecuador as his injury has trended positively during his brief recovery.
Here’s what you need to know as USA TODAY Sports provides live updates on the Argentina vs. Ecuador match Thursday night:
Argentina vs. Ecuador Copa America live updates: Messi could start quarterfinal match
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Argentina vs. Ecuador prediction
Argentina are favorites to retain their Copa America crown in July with Messi at the forefront of their trophy defense in the USA.
Scaloni's team have lost just once in the last 12 months, and they will be confident up against a dogged Ecuador side, with the tournament start edging ever closer.
Prediction: Argentina 2-1 Ecuador
Lionel Messi could return to the starting lineup for Argentina’s Copa América quarterfinal match against Ecuador tonight.
Argentine news outlet TYCSports reported Thursday morning that Messi is in line to start the Ecuador match at Houston’s NRG Stadium after his performance in Wednesday’s practice.
“He finished yesterday's practice very well, and the captain feels good to start,” TYCSports insider Gaston Edul reported before the game.
Messi has continued to improve from a right groin/adductor strain in the last nine days. He sustained the injury in a 1-0 win over Chile on June 25, causing him to miss last Saturday’s 2-0 win against Peru in Miami.
Argentina hoped Messi would be healthy to return in the quarterfinal. It was just a matter if he would come off the bench as a substitute or start against Ecuador as his injury has trended positively during his brief recovery.
Here’s what you need to know as USA TODAY Sports provides live updates on the Argentina vs. Ecuador match Thursday night:
Argentina forward Lionel Messi plays during a Copa America match at Mercedez-Benz Stadium in Atlanta on June 20, 2024.
What time is Argentina vs. Ecuador Copa América match?
The Argentina and Ecuador match begins at 9 p.m. ET (7 p.m. GALT and 8 p.m. ECT in Ecuador; 10 p.m. ART in Argentina).
How to watch Argentina vs. Ecuador on TV and live stream?
The Argentina vs. Ecuador match on Thursday will be broadcast by FOX (in English) and on Univision/TUDN (in Spanish).
FOX Sports will provide live streams for Copa América matches. Matches also can be streamed on Fubo. Vix will provide a streaming option for Spanish-language broadcasts.
How much will Messi play vs. Ecuador?
Messi’s playing time, in his return from injury, could be limited. It would be rash to push him for a full 90-minute match unless he wanted to play the entire match. But how much will Messi play?
Get the Sports newsletter in your inbox.
Sports news, no matter the season. Stop by for the scores, stay for the stories.
Messi’s potential to start could indicate he might be in for an early exit. One report indicates Messi could play just 45 minutes, or the first half, of the Ecuador match.
Argentina and Ecuador meet again in Copa América quarterfinals
Argentina beat Ecuador 3-0 in the quarterfinals en route to the final of Copa América 2021. Messi scored on a free kick and had two assists in the victory – his score and second assist coming after the 84th minute.
What did Argentina’s coach say about Messi?
Argentine coach Lionel Scaloni said Wednesday he would speak to Messi before the club’s practice to determine how much he will play in the Ecuador match.
“I think it’s fair to wait until the last moment,” Scaloni said, referring to Messi going through another practice Wednesday. “I think it’s fair that he should take is time and train as much as possible. So after the training, rather, before, I will talk to him and then we will make the decision.”
How has Messi progressed from injury?
Messi participated in his second full practice with his Argentine teammates in Houston on Wednesday night, one day after his first. He was a limited practice participant on Monday. Messi worked solely with a trainer since suffering the injury before his return to practice.
How has Messi performed during Copa América?
Messi had an assist in Argentina’s 2-0 win in their Copa América opener against Canada but is scoreless through two matches.
Who does Argentina/Ecuador winner face in Copa América semifinal?
The Argentina/Ecuador winner advances to a semifinal match against the winner of Friday’s Venezuela/Canada match. The semifinal will be played July 9 inside MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
When are the other Copa América quarterfinal matches?
Along with the Argentina-Ecuador match Thursday, the Copa América quarterfinals continue with one match Friday and conclude with two matches Saturday.
Venezuela and Canada will meet on Friday at 9 p.m. ET inside AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.
Colombia and Panama will play on Saturday at 6 p.m. ET inside State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona.
Uruguay and Brazil meet on Saturday at 9 p.m. inside Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas.
All of the matches will be broadcast on FS1 in English, Univision/TUDN in Spanish.
Odds to win 2024 Copa America
Argentina is the favorite to win the 2024 Copa América, according to BetMGM soccer odds. Looking to wager? Check out the best mobile sports betting apps offering 2024 sports betting promos. Here are the odds as of Thursday:
Argentina (+125)
Brazil (+333)
Colombia (+550)
Uruguay (+550)
Venezuela (+2500)
Ecuador (+3300)
Canada (+4000)
Panama (+10000)
We occasionally recommend interesting products and services. If you make a purchase by clicking one of the links, we may earn an affiliate fee. USA TODAY Network newsrooms operate independently, and this doesn’t influence our coverage.
Gannett may earn revenue from sports betting operators for audience referrals to betting services. Sports betting operators have no influence over nor are any such revenues in any way dependent on or linked to the newsrooms or news coverage. Terms apply, see operator site for Terms and Conditions. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, help is available. Call the National Council on Problem Gambling 24/7 at 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ, OH), 1-800-522-4700 (CO), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN). Must be 21 or older to gamble. Sports betting and gambling are not legal in all locations. Be sure to comply with laws applicable where you reside.