Argentina received a major boost ahead of their World Cup title defence as captain Lionel Messi returned from injury and scored in a 3-0 friendly victory over Iceland in Alabama. The match marked Messi’s first appearance in 16 days after recovering from muscle overload in his left hamstring.
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner entered the game in the second half and immediately lifted the atmosphere among the 88,044 fans at Jordan-Hare Stadium. Messi converted a penalty in the 72nd minute, taking his international tally to 117 goals and becoming the oldest goalscorer in Argentina’s history.
His successful return eases concerns over his fitness just days before Argentina begin their World Cup campaign against Algeria on June 16. The defending champions enter the tournament aiming to replicate the success of their memorable 2022 triumph in Qatar.
Midfielder Rodrigo De Paul emphasized the team’s determination to once again unite Argentine supporters through a strong World Cup performance. While acknowledging the high expectations that always surround Argentina, he stressed that the squad is fully focused on competing until the final day of the tournament.
Head coach Lionel Scaloni, meanwhile, urged caution and realism despite the positive signs from the pre-World Cup friendlies against Honduras and Iceland. According to Scaloni, winning a World Cup requires more than simply playing attractive football, with preparation, mentality and circumstances all playing crucial roles.
The Argentina manager expressed satisfaction with the team’s performances and admitted that Messi’s recovery has helped relieve earlier concerns within the camp. He believes the friendlies have provided valuable answers regarding the squad’s readiness.
Argentina have been drawn in Group J alongside Algeria, Austria and Jordan. With Messi fit again and confidence building within the squad, La Albiceleste will begin their quest to successfully defend the World Cup crown.
