Argentina came out on top in the last test before the World Cup. Valentín Barco opened the scoring seven minutes into the first half and secured a partial 1-0 lead over Iceland, in Auburn, in the United States.
The midfielder took advantage of the ball inside the area after a ball dispute and finished first, into the right corner of the Icelandic goalkeeper. The move summed up the good start of Lionel Scaloni’s team, which dominated possession and created chances despite several changes to the lineup.
Messi started on the bench, but should come on during the match. Scaloni chose to give minutes to other players at a competitive pace. Striker Flaco López, from Palmeiras, was a starter alongside Nico Paz and other names that have been gaining space in the group.
Busy start at Jordan-Hare StadiumAfter just three minutes, Iceland almost equalized with a quick counterattack. Gudmundsson crossed from the left and Ellertsson, free in the small area, sent it over the crossbar. The Seleção responded with Barco, who had already tried from outside shortly before.
The game is Argentina’s last match before their World Cup debut, scheduled for June 16th. The team seeks to fine-tune their chemistry and test tactical options on the American field, where they will also play group stage games.
Recent history against IcelandersThe clash brings back memories of 2018. In the debut of the Russian Cup, Iceland held Argentina 1-1, with a historic goal from the Europeans. This time, the duel serves as preparation and symbolic rematch on neutral soil.
The game takes place at Jordan-Hare Stadium, home of the Auburn University football team. It was the first international football game at the stadium in the venue’s 87-year history, with a large crowd expected.
