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BUENOS AIRES: Argentina began life without legendary captain Lionel Messi with a 2-1 defeat to Uruguay in an international friendly at La Bombonera in Buenos Aires on Friday.
The match marked Argentina’s first appearance since Messi retired from international football in early October, bringing an end to his 21-year career with the national team.
Uruguay, under new coach Diego Forlán, took the lead through an own goal by Argentina defender Leonardo Balerdi in the 48th minute.
Maximiliano Araújo doubled the visitors’ advantage five minutes later with another goal in the 53rd minute.
Argentina managed to reduce the deficit through striker Julián Álvarez, who scored in the 73rd minute. However, the hosts failed to find an equaliser despite pushing forward in the closing stages.
The defeat highlighted the challenge facing coach Lionel Scaloni as Argentina enter a new chapter following the departure of their most influential player.
Messi, 39, announced his international retirement after a remarkable career in which he became Argentina’s all-time leading scorer and most-capped player. He led the country to the 2022 FIFA World Cup title and two Copa América championships.
His absence was evident both on and off the pitch. The stadium was not completely full, while many supporters wore Argentina jerseys bearing Messi’s iconic No. 10.
Scaloni decided not to assign the No. 10 shirt to any player for the match, saying he had yet to choose a successor and preferred to leave the number vacant for the time being.
On the pitch, Argentina maintained their familiar possession-based style but lacked the attacking creativity and decisive contribution Messi had provided for more than two decades.
Nicolás Paz and Thiago Almada were unable to fill that creative void.
Meanwhile, Scaloni recently extended his contract with Argentina through 2030, signalling his commitment to guiding the national team through its post-Messi transition.
Argentina will look to bounce back when they face Costa Rica in Córdoba on Tuesday, while Uruguay will take on the Dominican Republic on the same day.
