Angel Di Maria, Argentina and Benfica right winger, scored the only goal as Argentina warmed up for their Copa America title defense with a 1-0 friendly victory over Ecuador in Chicago on Sunday.
Di Maria, named captain for the game with Inter Miami star Lionel Messi on the bench, secured his 31st international goal in the 40th minute of an entertaining clash at Soldier Field.
Messi was introduced in the 56th minute to replace Di Maria, but the Inter Miami star was unable to help Argentina add to the scoreline.
The victory highlighted Di Maria’s importance to the team, especially in Messi’s absence.
