Messi Returns In Style, Scores 117th Country Goal As Argentina Cruise Past Iceland In Final World Cup Warm-Up

Lionel Messi made a triumphant return from a recent injury scare, scoring once and providing key involvement as Argentina secured a comfortable 3–0 victory over Iceland in their final World Cup warm-up match played in Auburn, Alabama, on Tuesday, June 9, 2026.

The Argentine captain, an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, began the match on the bench as head coach Lionel Scaloni opted to ease him back into full match fitness following concerns over a muscle fatigue issue that had briefly cast doubt on his readiness for the tournament.

Messi’s fitness had been a talking point after he was forced off during Inter Miami’s high-scoring 6–4 win over Philadelphia on May 24, prompting fears he might be carrying a lingering injury ahead of the World Cup.

However, those worries were quickly eased as the forward delivered a lively 20-minute cameo that reminded fans of his enduring quality on the international stage.

The 38-year-old reached another milestone in the process, netting his 117th international goal in what was his 199th appearance for Argentina.

Scaloni Rotates Squad in Final Test

Scaloni used the friendly as an opportunity to experiment with his squad, naming a largely rotated starting XI that saw key players such as Julián Álvarez, Enzo Fernández, Alexis Mac Allister, and Messi initially left on the bench.

The match attracted a huge crowd of around 88,000 spectators, many of whom were eager to witness Messi’s final appearance before the World Cup begins.

Argentina are set to begin their title defence on June 16 against Algeria, before further group-stage fixtures against Austria and Jordan in Group J.

Iceland Miss Early Chance Before Argentina Strike

Iceland nearly stunned the world champions early in the match when Mikael Egill Ellertsson found himself with a clear opening inside the first few minutes. However, he blasted his effort over the bar with the goal at his mercy.

Argentina quickly punished that missed opportunity, breaking the deadlock through Valentín Barco. The defender reacted quickest during a goalmouth scramble, firing into the bottom corner after Iceland failed to clear their lines.

Nico Paz, handed a starting role in Messi’s absence, came close to doubling the advantage before halftime, but his powerful effort was brilliantly saved by Iceland goalkeeper Einarsson Ólafsson, who blocked the shot in an unusual fashion.

Dominant Second Half Performance

After the break, Scaloni introduced several changes, including Enzo Fernández, Alexis Mac Allister, and Lautaro Martínez, as Argentina increased their intensity and controlled proceedings.

Martínez went close on two occasions, striking the woodwork both times in a frustrating spell for the striker, who looked set to extend Argentina’s lead but was repeatedly denied by luck and fine goalkeeping.

Despite their dominance, Argentina had to wait until Messi’s introduction in the final stages to fully unlock Iceland’s resistance.

Messi Delivers Late Magic

The crowd erupted when Messi finally stepped onto the pitch, and he made an immediate impact. Within minutes, his vision created a chance for Martínez, who was brought down by the Iceland goalkeeper after attempting a delicate finish.

Moments later, Messi found the back of the net himself, calmly finishing a well-worked move to double Argentina’s lead and register his 117th international goal.

The Argentina captain remained influential until the final whistle, playing a key role in the third goal. His precise pass released Rodrigo De Paul, who squared the ball for Thiago Almada to tap into an empty net and seal the 3–0 victory.

Strong Signal Ahead of World Cup

The performance will serve as a major confidence boost for Argentina ahead of their World Cup opener, with Messi showing sharpness, creativity, and composure after his recent fitness concerns.

With their captain back among the goals and the squad showing depth and balance, the reigning world champions head into the tournament in strong form and high spirits.