Messi Makes Immediate Impact Upon Return; Argentina Eyes Back-to-Back World Cup Titles

The "God of Football," Lionel Messi, has made his return ahead of his sixth World Cup appearance, immediately making his presence felt.

With Messi back in the lineup, Argentina is once again charging toward a second consecutive World Cup title.

Messi, who had been focusing on recovery after feeling discomfort in his left hamstring during a club match on May 25, raised expectations for his return by being named to the bench for the friendly match against Iceland.

Argentina took the lead in the 8th minute of the first half with a brilliant long-range shot from Barco. Messi then stepped onto the pitch in the 25th minute of the second half to the roar of the fans, and he wasted no time in showing his class.

With a sharp pass, he broke through the defensive line, allowing the rushing Lautaro to earn a penalty kick.

Messi stepped up as the kicker to score his first goal since returning. He then set the stage for the third goal in the 41st minute of the second half, leading his team to a 3-0 victory.

Having secured their seventh consecutive win in international matches, Argentina has confirmed Messi's fitness and is now well-prepared for their quest for back-to-back World Cup titles.

(Video Editing: Park Gi-deok)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.