Messi shines on return as Argentina defeat Iceland in friendly
Lionel Messi made a strong comeback from injury, scoring soon after coming off the bench as Argentina secured a 3-0 victory over Iceland in their final World Cup warm-up in Auburn, Alabama. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner started on the sidelines, joined by Julian Alvarez, Enzo Fernandez, and Alexis Mac Allister as coach Lionel Scaloni tested an experimental line-up. Messi impressed in a 20-minute cameo, easing concerns about his fitness ahead of the World Cup. The match saw contributions from several Argentine players, with Valentin Barco and Thiago Almada also finding the net.
Match highlights
- Lionel Messi scored his 117th international goal on his 199th cap after coming off the bench.
- Valentin Barco opened the scoring for Argentina after a goalmouth scramble.
- Thiago Almada sealed the win by tapping in after a pass from Rodrigo De Paul, set up by Messi.
- Lautaro Martinez hit the post twice after being introduced at half-time.
- Nico Paz missed a key chance to extend Argentina’s lead before the break.
