20-minute masterclass! Messi sets another record as Argentina cruise past Iceland

Argentina secured a comfortable 3-0 friendly victory over Iceland, but the story of the night was the successful return of Messi, who had been an injury doubt in recent weeks.

The reigning world champions dominated proceedings, but the biggest story of the night was the return of their captain.

Carefully managed after recent physical issues, the 38-year-old came off the bench for the final 20 minutes and made an immediate impact, scoring one goal and registering an assist.

Messi’s strike carried huge significance. It took his international tally to 117 goals in 199 appearances and made him Argentina’s oldest ever goalscorer at 38 years, 11 months and 14 days, surpassing club legend Ángel Labruna.

His first meaningful involvement saw him play Lautaro Martínez through on goal, forcing the Icelandic goalkeeper into a foul.

Messi stepped up and calmly converted the resulting penalty to put the game beyond doubt.

The rout was completed late on through a swift counterattack started by Messi. Rodrigo De Paul provided the assist, and Thiago Almada finished clinically to seal the 3-0 victory.

It was the perfect send-off for Lionel Scaloni’s side. With confidence high and key players gradually returning to full fitness, Argentina now turn their focus to their World Cup opener against Algeria, carrying strong momentum.