Argentina captain Lionel Messi made a triumphant return from injury concerns, scoring shortly after coming off the bench to help the world champions secure a comfortable 3-0 victory over Iceland in their final warm-up match ahead of the FIFA World Cup.
The friendly encounter, played before a packed crowd in Auburn, Alabama, saw Messi start on the bench as coach Lionel Scaloni carefully managed his fitness following muscle fatigue that forced him out of action in late May.
Argentina fielded an experimental starting lineup, with key players including Julián Álvarez, Enzo Fernández and Alexis Mac Allister also beginning the match on the bench.
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Iceland nearly stunned the South Americans early on but failed to convert a clear opportunity. Argentina then capitalised, taking the lead through defender Valentín Barco, who fired home after a scramble inside the Iceland penalty area.
The reigning world champions controlled much of the game but wasted several chances to extend their advantage. Midfielder Nico Paz saw a powerful effort saved, while striker Lautaro Martínez struck the woodwork twice after being introduced at halftime.
The moment fans had been waiting for arrived in the final quarter when Messi entered the match. The veteran forward made an immediate impact, earning a penalty after his brilliant pass set up Martínez, who was brought down by Iceland goalkeeper Elias Olafsson.
Messi calmly converted the spot-kick to score his 117th international goal on his 199th appearance for Argentina.
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner was also involved in Argentina’s third goal, threading a pass to Rodrigo De Paul, whose cross found Thiago Almada for a simple finish.
The victory provides a major boost for Argentina ahead of their World Cup title defence, with Messi’s successful return easing concerns about his fitness before their opening Group J clash against Algeria on June 16. Argentina will also face Austria and Jordan in the group stage.
