Messi scores on injury return as Argentina beat Iceland in World Cup warm-up

Lionel Messi scored within minutes of returning from an injury scare as Argentina national football team defeated Iceland national football team 3-0 in their final FIFA World Cup warm-up match in Auburn, Alabama, on Tuesday.

Messi started the game on the bench as the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner continues his recovery after suffering muscle fatigue during Inter Miami CF’s dramatic 6-4 victory over Philadelphia on 24 May.

Also rested at kickoff were Julian Alvarez, Enzo Fernandez and Alexis Mac Allister as coach Lionel Scaloni fielded an experimental line-up before a packed 88,000-capacity crowd.

Argentina dominate despite slow start

Iceland nearly stunned the reigning world champions early in the match when Mikael Egill Ellertsson blasted over the bar with a clear opportunity in front of goal.

Argentina quickly responded and took the lead after Iceland failed to properly clear a goalmouth scramble, allowing Strasbourg defender Valentin Barco to fire home from close range.

Nico Paz later missed a golden chance to double the advantage before halftime when his powerful strike was denied by Iceland goalkeeper Elias Olafsson.

Messi makes instant impact

At halftime, Scaloni introduced Fernandez, Mac Allister and Lautaro Martinez among several substitutions as Argentina increased the pressure.

Martinez twice struck the post before Messi finally entered the game in the final quarter to loud cheers from the crowd.

With his first major involvement, Messi produced a brilliant through pass that released Martinez, who was brought down by Olafsson inside the box.

The Argentine captain calmly converted the resulting opportunity, scoring his 117th international goal on his 199th appearance for the national team.

Messi later helped create Argentina’s third goal after setting up Rodrigo De Paul, who squared the ball for Thiago Almada to tap home.

Argentina ready for World Cup defence

The performance eased concerns about Messi’s fitness ahead of what is expected to be his sixth FIFA World Cup appearance.

Argentina will begin the defence of their World Cup title against Algeria on 16 June before facing Austria and Jordan in Group J.

Scaloni’s side are widely regarded as one of the favourites for the tournament as they prepare for another major international campaign led by Messi.