Messi Scores on Return as Argentina Defeats Iceland Ahead of World Cup Campaign

AUBURN: Lionel Messi marked his return from injury with a goal as reigning world champions Argentina defeated Iceland 3-0 on Tuesday in their final warm-up match ahead of the FIFA World Cup.

The Argentine captain, who recently recovered from muscle fatigue and a minor strain in his left hamstring suffered during his last appearance for Inter Miami CF on May 24, began the match on the bench before entering in the 70th minute.

Just days before his 39th birthday and what is expected to be his sixth World Cup appearance, Messi made an immediate impact by converting a penalty in the 72nd minute. The spot-kick was awarded after Lautaro Martínez was fouled inside the penalty area.

The goal added to Messi’s record tally for Argentina, taking his international scoring achievements to 117 goals for the national team.

Argentina, aiming to secure a fourth World Cup title following triumphs in 1978, 1986 and 2022, will begin its campaign against Algeria on June 16 in Kansas City. The South American side competes in Group J alongside Algeria, Austria and Jordan.

Tuesday’s encounter was only the second meeting between Argentina and Iceland. Their previous clash came during the 2018 FIFA World Cup, when Iceland secured a 1-1 draw in a match that saw Messi miss a penalty.

The convincing victory provides a timely boost for Argentina as the defending champions prepare to begin their quest for another World Cup crown.