Lionel Messi marked his return from injury with a goal as Argentina defeated Iceland 3-0 in their final warm-up match ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The friendly encounter was played on Tuesday in Auburn, Alabama, before a large crowd as Argentina completed preparations for the tournament.

Messi started the match on the bench as coach Lionel Scaloni managed his recovery following a muscle fatigue issue that forced him off during Inter Miami’s 6-4 victory over Philadelphia on May 24.

Also rested at the start were key players Julian Alvarez, Enzo Fernandez and Alexis Mac Allister, as Scaloni opted for an experimental lineup.

Argentina took the lead early after Iceland failed to clear a dangerous situation inside their penalty area. The loose ball fell kindly to Strasbourg defender Valentin Barco, who fired into the bottom corner to make it 1-0.

The South Americans maintained control but missed several opportunities to extend their advantage before halftime.

At the break, Scaloni introduced several first-team players, including Fernandez, Mac Allister and Lautaro Martinez, who came close to scoring on multiple occasions but struck the woodwork twice.

Messi eventually entered the match in the final quarter and made an immediate impact.

Moments after coming on, the Argentine captain produced a precise pass that released Martinez, who was subsequently brought down by Iceland goalkeeper Elias Olafsson.

Messi then doubled Argentina’s lead, calmly slotting home for his 117th international goal on his 199th appearance for the national team.

The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner was also involved in Argentina’s third goal, providing the pass that initiated the move before Rodrigo De Paul squared the ball for Thiago Almada to finish from close range.

The victory provides a major boost for Argentina ahead of their World Cup title defence.

The reigning world champions will begin their campaign against Algeria on June 16, before facing Austria and Jordan in Group J.

Messi, who is expected to feature in his sixth FIFA World Cup, appeared sharp during his 20-minute cameo, easing concerns over his fitness ahead of the tournament.