Lionel Messi made a winning return from injury as Argentina beat Iceland 3-0 in their final World Cup warm-up match on Tuesday in Auburn, Alabama.
The Argentina captain started on the bench after recovering from muscle fatigue. The injury forced him off during Inter Miami’s 6-4 win over Philadelphia on May 24.
Coach Lionel Scaloni also rested several key players. Julian Alvarez, Enzo Fernandez, and Alexis Mac Allister all began the game among the substitutes.
Iceland nearly shocked the world champions early in the match. Mikael Egill Ellertsson found space in front of goal but fired his shot over the crossbar.
Argentina punished that miss and took the lead soon after. Iceland failed to clear the ball during a scramble inside the penalty area. Strasbourg defender Valentin Barco reacted first and drilled a low shot into the bottom corner.
Messi entered the match in the second half and made an instant impact. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner scored within minutes of coming on. His goal eased concerns about his fitness ahead of the World Cup.
Argentina controlled the rest of the game and added a third goal to complete a comfortable victory.
The result gives the defending champions confidence before the tournament begins. Argentina open their World Cup campaign against Algeria on June 16. They will then face Austria and Jordan in Group J.
Messi is preparing for his sixth World Cup appearance. Argentina fans will hope their captain can lead the team to another successful title run.
