Lionel Messi scores on injury return as Argentina beat Iceland 3-0
Lionel Messi marked his return from injury with a penalty as Argentina defeated Iceland 3-0 in a World Cup warm-up match in Alabama.
The Inter Miami captain was introduced in the 70th minute to the delight of an 88,000-strong crowd at Jordan-Hare Stadium.
He confidently converted from the spot shortly after his arrival to double the advantage for Lionel Scaloni’s side.
Ezequiel Barco had previously opened the scoring in the first half, while Thiago Almada added a third goal to seal a comprehensive victory.
Managing the captain’s fitness
The veteran forward has been carefully navigating a left hamstring issue ahead of the upcoming Fifa World Cup.
He recently exited a domestic fixture against the Philadelphia Union with muscle fatigue, forcing him to miss his national team’s previous friendly victory over Honduras.
However, the coaching staff have gradually integrated him back into group training to ensure his readiness for their tournament opener against Algeria on 16 June.
“We’re going to distribute the minutes of the players who will play tomorrow to try to avoid any mishaps.”
This was the cautious approach outlined by manager Scaloni prior to the fixture, ensuring his squad avoided unnecessary strain.
World Cup defence preparations
The penalty against Iceland represented the 911th career goal for the Argentine icon across both club and international football.
It also takes his phenomenal international tally to 117 goals for the South American nation.
The reigning world champions look to be in formidable form as they prepare to defend the global crown they famously secured in 2022.