Lionel Messi made a successful return to action and found the back of the net as Argentina defeated Iceland 3-0 before a record-breaking crowd of 88,043 fans at Jordan-Hare Stadium on Tuesday night.
The match, the most-attended soccer game in Alabama history, served as Argentina’s final tune-up as part of the Road to 26, before the start of FIFA World Cup play. Despite heavy rain and flood warnings earlier in the day, fans packed the stadium to witness the defending world champions and catch a glimpse of Messi in his first appearance since May after recovering from a hamstring injury.
Argentina took the lead early when 21-year-old Valentín Barco scored in the eighth minute, giving the South American giants a 1-0 advantage. Iceland created several opportunities throughout the match but was unable to break through against Argentina’s defense.
As chants of “We Want Messi!” echoed throughout Jordan-Hare Stadium in the second half, the global superstar entered the match in the 70th minute. Just minutes later, Messi delivered the moment fans had been waiting for, converting a penalty kick after helping create the scoring opportunity. The goal marked the 911th of his legendary career and sent the sellout crowd into a frenzy.
Thiago Almada added a late goal in the 87th minute to complete the 3-0 victory, while Argentina recorded its second consecutive clean sheet heading into tournament play.
The night showcased not only Argentina’s depth and quality but also the growing excitement surrounding the World Cup, as thousands of fans turned out to witness one of the sport’s greatest players and the reigning world champions in action.
Argentina now turns its attention to its World Cup opener against Algeria on June 16 in Kansas City, while Iceland leaves Auburn after a spirited performance against one of international soccer’s elite teams
