Lionel Messi scored a goal as Argentina sharpened its preparations ahead of the defending champions’ World Cup title defense. The strike came during a warm-up fixture as the squad fine-tuned its tactics before the tournament’s group stage.
Messi, who led Argentina to the 2022 World Cup title in Qatar, remains the focal point of the national team’s attack. His goal provided encouragement for a side seeking to become the first repeat champion since Brazil in 1962.
Coach Lionel Scaloni has integrated younger players around Messi’s experienced core. Argentina opens its title defense against Algeria on June 16 according to the tournament schedule.
The team’s pre-tournament performances are closely watched as a barometer of its readiness. Messi’s continued productivity at the international level remains central to Argentina’s ambitions.
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https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/49026257/world-cup-2026-today-blog-11-06-2026-live-updates-news-fixtures-schedule-results-england-costa-rica