Lionel Messi came on as a substitute in Argentina's 2-1 win over Mauritania in a friendly match played in Buenos Aires. With this success, the Argentines maintained their unbeaten streak in the capital, which has lasted since November 2023, when they lost to Uruguay. Captain Messi joined the game at the start of the second half, BTA reports.
The hosts secured a comfortable lead even before the break after goals from Enzo Fernandez in the 17th minute and Nico Paz in the 32nd minute. The visitors scored through Jordan Lefort in added time, making the final score 2:1.
Among the starters for Mauritania was CSKA 1948 striker Mamadou Diallo, who is having a strong season in the First League with 14 goals. He remained on the field until the break, after which he was substituted.
Argentina will play another test at the “Bombonera“ stadium against Zambia on Wednesday as part of their preparation for the defense of the world title.
In another friendly, Morocco finished 1:1 with Ecuador in Madrid in the debut of new coach Mohamed Wahbi. Ecuador took the lead through John Yeboah in the 48th minute, and Neil El Ainaoui equalized in the 88th after missing a penalty earlier.
Egypt, meanwhile, achieved a convincing 4-0 victory over Saudi Arabia in Jeddah. Mohamed Salah was missing from the squad, but Omar Marmouch also scored in the victory.