Lionel Messi back at practice ahead of Argentina's Copa quarterfinal

(Photo credit: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports)

Lionel Messi returned to practice Monday for Argentina as the national team prepares to face Ecuador in a Copa America quarterfinal matchup Thursday in Houston.

Messi had not practiced since he sustained a right groin/thigh injury during his side's 1-0 win against Chile on June 25. He sat out Argentina's 2-0 victory over Peru on Saturday.

According to the Argentine foo