Lionel Messi Scores as Argentina Cruise Past Iceland

Argentina rounded off their preparations for the FIFA World Cup 2026 in convincing fashion, securing a comfortable 3-0 victory over Iceland in an international friendly at Jordan-Hare Stadium in Auburn, United States.
The reigning world champions made a bright start and took the lead after just eight minutes through midfielder Valentin Barco, who capped off an impressive team move to put Argentina in control.
While the South Americans dominated possession throughout the contest, the biggest moment of the evening arrived in the second half when Lionel Messi stepped onto the pitch. The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner wasted little time making an impact, calmly converting a penalty in the 72nd minute to double his side's advantage.
Thiago Almada then added the finishing touch three minutes from time, finding the net in the 87th minute to seal an emphatic win and ensure Argentina head into the tournament full of confidence.
The match marked the final warm-up fixture for Lionel Scaloni's side before the start of the FIFA World Cup 2026. Drawn in Group J, Argentina will face Algeria, Austria and Jordan as they begin the defence of their world title.
