Buenos Aires, Jun 10 (V7N) – Defending world champions Argentina concluded their preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in impressive fashion, defeating Iceland 3-0 in their final warm-up match.
The Albiceleste dominated much of the contest and displayed the attacking flair that has made them one of the favorites for the upcoming tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Argentina took the lead early in the match through defender Barco, who produced a stunning strike from outside the penalty area. Meeting the ball with a powerful volley just beyond the D-box, Barco sent a low shot bouncing into the inside corner of the net, leaving the Icelandic goalkeeper with no chance despite a full-length dive.
The spectacular goal sparked celebrations on the Argentine bench as Lionel Scaloni’s side carried a 1-0 advantage into halftime.
The second half saw the much-anticipated arrival of captain Lionel Messi, who entered the match in the 67th minute. The Argentine superstar made an immediate impact, helping his team take full control of the game.
Just five minutes after coming on, Messi doubled Argentina’s lead from the penalty spot. The opportunity came after he delivered a brilliant through ball to Lautaro Martínez, whose goal-scoring chance was denied by a foul from the Iceland goalkeeper inside the box.
Messi calmly converted the resulting penalty to make it 2-0 and delight the Argentine supporters.
Argentina sealed the victory late in the match when Thiago Almada added a third goal, putting the result beyond doubt and completing an impressive performance by the reigning world champions.
The convincing win provides a significant boost to Argentina’s confidence ahead of their World Cup title defense, with Scaloni’s men appearing in strong form as they prepare for football’s biggest stage.
With Messi, Lautaro Martínez, and a talented supporting cast firing on all cylinders, Argentina will head into the tournament aiming to retain the trophy they won in Qatar and further cement their place among football’s elite nations.
END/SMA/AJ
