Football result - On a day when Lionel Messi excelled with two assists, the Argentina national team secured a commanding victory in a friendly match against Puerto Rico.
From the opening minutes, Argentina quickly took control of the game with smooth teamwork and constant pressure on the opponent’s goal. In the 14th minute, Alexis Mac Allister opened the scoring for the Albiceleste with a precise header that skimmed the left post, leaving goalkeeper Sebastian Cutler de Jesus unable to react in time.
Less than 10 minutes later, Lionel Messi delivered a clever pass to Gonzalo Montiel, who volleyed in a one-touch finish to double La Albiceleste’s lead in the 23rd minute. The South American side continued to dominate the game, forcing Puerto Rico to retreat deep into defense and rely on rare quick counterattacks.
Towards the end of the half, Alexis Mac Allister secured his second goal with a cool finish inside the penalty area, increasing the score to 3-0 in the 36th minute. Although Puerto Rico created a few dangerous chances, notably Wilfredo Rivera’s free kick in the 44th minute, they failed to convert any into goals.
In the second half, Argentina maintained complete dominance over Puerto Rico. Right after the break, coach Lionel Scaloni made several substitutions to refresh the squad, bringing on Anibal Moreno and Lautaro Rivero. The players in blue kept controlling possession smoothly, continuously exchanging passes and creating threatening attacks.
In the 64th minute, the world champions extended their lead to 4-0 following an unfortunate own goal by Puerto Rico’s Steven Echevarria.
In the final moments of the match, substitute striker Lautaro Martinez scored twice, including one assisted by Messi, sealing a 6-0 victory for Argentina.