Messi magic returns in Argentina's 3-0 win over Iceland in World Cup warm-up

Football icon Lionel Messi made an immediate impact on his return from injury as Argentina defeated Iceland 3-0 in their final World Cup warm-up match in Auburn, Alabama, on Tuesday. The Argentine captain started on the bench as coach Lionel Scaloni carefully managed his recovery after muscle fatigue forced him off during Inter Miami’s 6-4 victory over Philadelphia on May 24. Several key players, including Julian Alvarez, Enzo Fernandez, and Alexis Mac Allister, were also rested at the start as Scaloni experimented with his lineup in front of a large crowd.

Iceland nearly stunned the reigning world champions in the opening minutes when Mikael Egill Ellertsson missed a golden opportunity, blasting over the bar with the goal at his mercy. Argentina quickly capitalized, taking the lead after Iceland failed to fully clear a dangerous situation in the penalty area. The loose ball fell to Valentin Barco, who calmly fired into the bottom corner.



Argentina had chances to extend their advantage before halftime, but Nico Paz was denied by Iceland goalkeeper Elias Olafsson, who made a crucial save with his face. The introduction of Fernandez, Mac Allister, and Lautaro Martinez at halftime injected fresh energy into the Argentine attack. Martinez came close to scoring on multiple occasions, striking the woodwork twice.

The crowd’s biggest cheer arrived in the final stages when Messi entered the match. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner immediately showcased his quality, creating a chance for Martinez with a perfectly weighted pass. Moments later, Messi got on the scoresheet himself, calmly converting to score his 117th international goal in his 199th appearance for Argentina.


Messi also played a key role in Argentina’s third goal, setting up Rodrigo De Paul, who squared the ball for Thiago Almada to finish from close range.

The convincing victory provided a timely boost for Argentina ahead of their World Cup title defense, which begins against Algeria on June 16 before group-stage matches against Austria and Jordan.