Rumors about Lionel Messi not featuring in the friendly against Venezuela started circulating a couple of days before the match.
Inter Miami and Argentina coaches were both lip tied about the star’s involvement in the game until the final team lineup was announced. Football fans and pundits alike were eager to see how Lionel Scaloni’s team would perform without the star player’s presence in the pitch.
Argentina, the current World Cup holders narrowly secured three points in an international friendly game against Venezuela at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami on October 10.
Lionel Scolani’s side enjoyed comfortable control in the first half. The opener came after Lautaro Martinez intercepted a loose ball and passed it to Lo Celso, who made an effort that was deflected into the goal in the 31st minute, putting the reigning champions ahead.
Venezuela were impressive in the second half, it appeared they had a fighting chance especially since Argentina sat back a little. However none of their efforts materialized into anything substantial.
Argentina’s performance proved the team still has a lot of room to improve, if they hope to put up a strong defense and retain the World Cup.
