Lionel Messi orchestrated Argentina's resounding 6-0 victory over Puerto Rico in a friendly match relocated to Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The match, initially scheduled for Chicago, was moved due to a combination of low ticket sales and concerns regarding immigration issues in the original venue. While Messi didn't find the net himself, his influence was undeniable, providing two assists and playing a key role in another goal.
The game also marked a significant milestone for young striker Jose Manuel Lopez, who earned his first cap for the national team. López, who plays as a striker for Palmeiras, marked his debut with an assist, setting up Alexis Mac Allister's second goal of the match.
Argentina, the reigning World Cup champions and currently ranked third in the world, demonstrated their dominance against a Puerto Rico side ranked 155th, which included some college players. The one-sided affair served as crucial preparation for the 2026 World Cup, to be held in the US, Mexico, and Canada.
Messi's brilliance was on full display as he showcased his playmaking skills. He provided a lob pass to Gonzalo Montiel in the first half and a back pass to Lautaro Martínez for his second goal in the 83rd minute. These assists not only contributed to the lopsided scoreline but also allowed Messi to surpass his former Barcelona teammate Neymar for the most international assists in history, with a record-breaking 60 assists for Argentina. Overall, Messi has 398 career assists.
Alexis Mac Allister and Lautaro Martínez each scored twice, adding to Argentina's goal tally. An own goal further compounded Puerto Rico's woes. Argentina's attack was firing on all cylinders, extending their unbeaten run in international matches to 12 games.
While Argentina dominated, Puerto Rico struggled to create opportunities, managing only four shots without a single one on target. Goalkeeper Sebastian Cutler, who plays for Villanova, made a couple of notable saves against Messi. Leandro Antonetti nearly caught Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez off guard with a long-range effort.
The Argentinian manager, Lionel Scaloni, had suggested before the match that Messi would feature against Puerto Rico. Messi had missed the previous friendly win over Venezuela.
The victory showcased Argentina's strength and their unwavering status as world champions. Messi continues to add chapters to his illustrious career, solidifying his place among the greatest football players of all time. With 114 international goals, he stands second only to Cristiano Ronaldo (141 goals) in the list of all-time top international goal scorers.
