Messi shines on injury return as Argentina beat Iceland in FIFA WC warm-up
Alabama, June 10
Football great Lionel Messi made a great return from injury with a stunning goal as the defending champions Argentina registered a dominating 3-0 win over Iceland in their last warm-up match ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026, commencing on Thursday.
Competing against a strong team, Iceland showed great character at the start and almost created a goal-scoring opportunity, but Mikael Ellertsson missed the post from close range, which proved to be crucial in the match.
Argentina, however, returned to their best as Valentin Barco scored the first goal of the match from outside the box in the eighth minute to give the team an early lead.
After the early lead, Argentina tested Iceland's defence throughout the first half but failed to score another goal as the scoreline was 1-0 at half-time.
Argentina's coach rang in big changes at the start of the second half as Alexis Mac Allister, Enzo Fernandez and Lautaro Martinez were brought in as substitutes, which increased the team's attacking strength.
Despite the changes, the defending champions were still unable to convert their chances, but things changed in a couple of minutes when their star player, Messi, was finally brought onto the field after starting the match on the bench.
The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner didn't take much time showing the world his great form. The 38-year-old made an immediate impact with his incisive pass leading to Lautaro Martinez winning a penalty. Messi then calmly converted from the spot in the 72nd minute to double Argentina's lead and score his 117th international goal.
Thiago Almada later completed the scoring in the 86th minute, finishing off a well-worked move involving Messi and Martinez that dismantled Iceland's defence.
With this win, Argentina head into the multinational tournament with winning momentum and a fit Messi on their side.
Argentina begin the defence of their World Cup crown against Algeria on June 16 before facing Austria and Jordan in Group J.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Honestly, Iceland played well in patches but they were no match for Argentina's depth. The substitutions changed the game completely. Mac Allister and Enzo coming on made such a difference. Can't wait for the World Cup to start! 🌟
I respect Messi's greatness but I hope he doesn't overshadow the young talent. Barco and Almada were brilliant today. Argentina's future is in safe hands even after Messi retires. That said, watching him still play is a privilege. 🐐
That pass from Messi for the penalty was insane! Split the defence open like butter. And then he calmly slots it in. This is why he's the GOAT. India needs to develop players like him - not just talent but that incredible game intelligence. 🤩
Strong performance but Argentina still looked shaky at the back in the first half. Iceland could have scored. But credit to Scaloni for making those bold changes early in the second half. With Messi fit, they're surely one of the favourites. Upcoming match against Algeria will be a real test.
Messi making history yet again! 117 international goals is simply unbelievable. But I'm also impressed by how the younger players are stepping up. Barco's goal was a beauty. India should take notes on how Argentina builds a team around their superstars. 🇦🇷⚽
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