Lagos, Nigeria – June 10, 2026
Lionel Messi marked his return from an injury scare with a goal as Argentina defeated Iceland 3-0 in their final warm-up match ahead of the FIFA World Cup.
The Argentine captain came off the bench to score and help seal victory for the reigning world champions in Auburn, Alabama, easing concerns about his fitness just days before the start of the tournament.
Messi had missed recent action after suffering muscle fatigue during Inter Miami’s thrilling 6-4 victory over Philadelphia on May 24, prompting questions about whether he would be fully fit for the World Cup.
Those concerns appeared to fade on Tuesday as the 38-year-old delivered a composed performance in a brief but influential cameo.
Scaloni Rotates Squad Ahead of World Cup
Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni named an experimental starting line-up, leaving several key players on the bench, including Messi, Julián Álvarez, Enzo Fernández and Alexis Mac Allister.
Despite the changes, Argentina eventually proved too strong for Iceland in front of a packed crowd.
The Europeans nearly stunned the South Americans in the opening minutes when Mikael Egill Ellertsson found himself with a clear opportunity, only to blast his effort over the bar with the goal at his mercy.
Argentina capitalised on the missed chance and took the lead soon afterwards.
Following a scramble inside the Iceland penalty area, the ball fell kindly to defender Valentín Barco, who drilled a low effort into the bottom corner to put the Albiceleste ahead.
Iceland Resist Before Messi Takes Centre Stage
Argentina controlled much of the contest but struggled to convert their dominance into goals.
Nico Paz came close to doubling the lead before halftime, but his powerful effort was denied by Iceland goalkeeper Elias Olafsson.
Scaloni introduced Enzo Fernández, Alexis Mac Allister and Lautaro Martínez among several halftime substitutions as Argentina sought greater attacking fluency.
Martínez twice struck the woodwork and squandered opportunities to extend the lead, leaving the crowd anticipating the arrival of Messi.
That moment finally came midway through the second half.
Messi Makes Immediate Impact
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner wasted little time making his presence felt.
His first meaningful involvement produced a clear scoring opportunity after a trademark through ball released Lautaro Martínez behind the Iceland defence. The striker was brought down by goalkeeper Olafsson after attempting to chip the ball.
Moments later, Messi got on the scoresheet himself.
Receiving possession inside the penalty area, the Argentine captain calmly slotted home his 117th international goal on what was his 199th appearance for the national team.
The goal sparked loud celebrations among supporters and provided further reassurance about his readiness for the World Cup.
Messi was also involved in Argentina’s third goal.
His incisive pass initiated the move before Rodrigo De Paul squared the ball for Thiago Almada, who tapped into an empty net to complete the scoring.
Focus Shifts to World Cup Defence
The victory concluded Argentina’s preparations for the World Cup, where Scaloni’s side will begin the defence of the title they won in Qatar.
Argentina open their campaign against Algeria on June 16 before facing Austria and Jordan in Group J.
With Messi returning to action and appearing sharp, the South Americans will travel into the tournament with renewed confidence as they seek to retain football’s biggest prize.
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