Defending world champions Argentina received a timely boost ahead of the FIFA World Cup as captain Lionel Messi returned from injury to score in a convincing 3-0 victory over Iceland on Tuesday night.
The match, played in Auburn, Alabama, served as Argentina’s final preparation before beginning their World Cup title defence, with Messi delivering a decisive cameo that eased concerns over his fitness.
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner started on the bench as coach Lionel Scaloni carefully managed his recovery following muscle fatigue that forced him off during Inter Miami’s 6-4 victory over Philadelphia on May 24.
Several first-team stars, including Julian Alvarez, Enzo Fernandez and Alexis Mac Allister, were also rested at kick-off as Scaloni opted for an experimental starting lineup before a packed crowd.
Argentina Take Control Early
Iceland nearly stunned the South Americans in the opening minutes when Mikael Egill Ellertsson found himself with a clear opportunity but failed to hit the target.
Argentina quickly capitalised on the missed chance.
Following a chaotic sequence inside Iceland’s penalty area, the ball broke kindly for Valentin Barco, who fired a low strike into the bottom corner to hand the three-time world champions the lead.
Argentina continued to create opportunities but failed to extend their advantage before halftime. Nico Paz came closest but saw his powerful effort denied by Iceland goalkeeper Elias Olafsson.
Messi Makes Instant Impact
Scaloni introduced several key players after the break, including Fernandez, Mac Allister and Lautaro Martinez.
Martinez came close to doubling Argentina’s lead on multiple occasions, striking the woodwork twice as Iceland struggled to contain the South American attack.
The crowd finally got its moment when Messi entered the game during the final quarter.
His influence was immediate.
Within moments of stepping onto the pitch, Messi delivered a perfectly weighted pass that sent Martinez through on goal. Although the striker was brought down by Olafsson after chipping the ball wide, Argentina were awarded a penalty.
Messi stepped up and calmly converted the spot-kick, scoring his 117th international goal on his 199th appearance for Argentina.
The goal effectively ended any lingering concerns over the veteran forward’s readiness for the tournament.
Argentina Finish Strong
Messi continued to orchestrate attacks after finding the net and played a key role in Argentina’s third goal.
The veteran playmaker released Rodrigo De Paul with a precise pass before the midfielder squared the ball across goal for Thiago Almada to tap home and complete the scoring.
The comfortable victory sends Argentina into the World Cup full of confidence as they prepare to begin their campaign against Algeria on June 16.
Argentina will also face Austria and Jordan in Group J as they seek to retain the trophy.
For Argentina supporters, the biggest takeaway from the evening was not the scoreline but the sight of Messi returning to action and immediately reminding the football world why he remains the heartbeat of the reigning champions.
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