Lionel Messi
Inter MiamiRW (CF)
Wide Forward
Jun 24, 1987 (38)
Left
5'7"
148 lb
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Converts penalty in friendly
Messi (hamstring) scored a penalty goal in 20 minutes played as a substitute during Tuesday's international friendly against Iceland.
Analysis: Messi finally saw game time with the Argentinian national team after being sidelined since May 24, and he made a quick impact, capitalizing on an easy chance from the penalty spot and delivering the penultimate pass before his side's final goal. The veteran is now set to feature as a winger in his record-breaking sixth World Cup, and he shouldn't need many touches to make a difference, carrying high offensive value throughout the tournament. His inclusion in the initial squad will most likely push Giuliano Simeone to a substitute role.
Set for Nigeria friendly
Messi (hamstring) is expected to see action in Tuesday's friendly against Nigeria as coach Lionel Scaloni looks to have him arrive at the World Cup with match rhythm after resting him against Honduras, saying in Monday's conference that "Leo (Messi) will play tomorrow".
Analysis: Messi traveled with the squad and was on the bench for Saturday's win over Honduras but was unused throughout the full 90 minutes as the coaching staff managed his workload carefully. His expected involvement against Nigeria is an encouraging sign that his hamstring issue is no longer a significant concern, with the priority now shifting from recovery to building match sharpness ahead of Argentina's World Cup opener against Algeria on June 16. The reigning world champions will be counting on their captain to lead the charge in what would be a historic bid for back-to-back titles, and getting him the necessary minutes before the tournament begins is clearly the next step in his preparation.
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