Friendly Match: Argentina 3-0 Iceland, Messi Shines on Return, Scores 117th Goal in 199th Appearance

On the morning of June 10, Beijing time, in a key preparatory match before the 2026 World Cup, the reigning champions Argentina took on Iceland. In this eagerly watched contest, Argentina triumphed 3-0, with goals from Balco’s early strike, Messi’s penalty after his comeback, and Almada’s insurance goal. This victory not only extended the Albiceleste’s winning streak to seven matches across all competitions but also provided a perfect conclusion to their pre-World Cup friendlies.

First Half: Balco’s Wonder Strike Gives Argentina an Early Lead

To further fine-tune the squad and minimize injury risks to key players ahead of the World Cup, Argentina coach Scaloni opted for a 4-4-2 formation, placing Messi, De Paul, and other starters on the bench. Despite fielding mostly backup players, Argentina still dominated possession and controlled the game.

Just eight minutes into the match, Argentina broke the deadlock. Iceland failed to clear the ball properly inside the box, and it fell to left midfielder Balco near the edge of the area. Without letting the ball bounce, he unleashed a spectacular left-foot volley that rocketed into the top corner, making it 1-0. This “out-of-this-world” strike showcased Balco’s excellent technique and sharp instincts.

Argentina continued to apply pressure in the following minutes. Nico Paz tested the Iceland goalkeeper with a dangerous free kick and a powerful volley from outside the box, but both were saved. At halftime, Argentina took a 1-0 lead into the dressing room.

Second Half: Messi Returns Like a King, Wins Penalty and Scores Shortly After Coming On

After the break, Argentina made several substitutions, bringing on Enzo, De Paul, Mac Allister, Romero, and Lautaro, among other regular starters. This increased the tempo of the match significantly.

In the 70th minute, the most thrilling moment arrived—38-year-old Messi replaced Giuliano Simeone to a thunderous ovation from the crowd. The king’s presence instantly electrified the stadium, and he didn’t disappoint. Just one minute after stepping onto the pitch, he displayed brilliant form. In the 71st minute, Messi’s first touch was a perfectly weighted through ball that sliced the defense and found Lautaro, who was brought down by the Iceland goalkeeper inside the box. The referee pointed to the spot without hesitation.

Stepping up to take the penalty himself, Messi calmly slotted the ball home with his left foot, making it 2-0. This goal was not only his first since returning but also his 911th career goal, making him the oldest goalscorer in Argentina’s national team history. Messi has now played 199 matches for Argentina, with 117 goals and 64 assists. He is set to reach the milestone of 200 appearances in Argentina’s first World Cup match.

Closing Stages: Almada Seals the Victory, Argentina Wraps Up Perfectly

With Messi orchestrating the attack, Argentina’s play became even more fluid. In the 86th minute, another intricate combination unfolded—Messi continued to pull the strings, De Paul provided a clever pass, and substitute Almada calmly slotted home to make it 3-0.

In the end, Argentina finished the warm-up with a resounding 3-0 victory. From Balco’s opening goal, to Messi’s penalty after coming off the bench, to Almada’s clincher, the team displayed impressive attacking firepower and squad depth.

As fans often say, watching Messi play remains a pure delight. Whenever he steps onto the pitch, Argentina’s attack instantly elevates to another level. Carrying this emphatic win and a seven-match winning streak, the Albiceleste are ready to embark on their quest to defend the World Cup title in 2026.