RismadarVoice Reporters, June 10, 2026
Argentina captain, Lionel Messi marked his return from injury with a goal as the reigning world champions defeated the Iceland national football team 3-0 in an international friendly in Auburn, Alabama, on Tuesday.
Messi came off the bench to score and provide an assist in Argentina’s final warm-up match ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner had been sidelined since May 24 after suffering muscle fatigue during Inter Miami CF’s 6-4 victory over the Philadelphia Union.
Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni opted to ease Messi back into action, naming him among the substitutes alongside key players including Julian Alvarez, Enzo Fernandez and Alexis Mac Allister.
Playing before a near-capacity crowd at Jordan-Hare Stadium, Iceland nearly opened the scoring in the early stages, but Mikael Egill Ellertsson missed a clear opportunity.
Argentina capitalised shortly afterwards, taking the lead through Valentin Barco, who fired home after Iceland failed to clear a goalmouth scramble.
The South Americans maintained control for much of the first half, although Nico Paz missed a chance to extend the lead when his effort was saved by Iceland goalkeeper Elias Olafsson.
Scaloni introduced several first-team regulars at halftime, including Fernandez, Mac Allister and Lautaro Martinez.
Martinez twice struck the woodwork as Argentina pushed for a second goal.
Messi eventually entered the match in the final quarter and made an immediate impact. His first contribution created a chance for Martinez, who was brought down by Olafsson inside the penalty area.
The Argentina captain stepped up and calmly converted the resulting penalty to score his 117th international goal on his 199th appearance for the national team.
Messi was also involved in Argentina’s third goal, releasing Rodrigo De Paul, whose cross was turned in by Thiago Almada.
The victory provides a major boost for Argentina ahead of their World Cup title defence.
The three-time world champions will begin their Group J campaign against the Algeria national football team on June 16 before facing the Austria national football team and the Jordan national football team in their remaining group-stage matches.
