Argentina Edge Venezuela Without Messi in Miami Friendly

Argentina claimed 1 - 0 friendly victory over Venezuela on Friday night at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami with Giovani Lo Celso netting the only goal in the 31 minute.

Absent Captain

Despite the venue’s 65000 seat capacity only 15000 fans attended the match where captain Lionel Messi was notably absent. The Inter Miami star watched from the stands alongside his family after being ruled out just minutes before kickoff.

Scaloni’s Decision & Upcoming Matches

The Argentine Football Association confirmed that Messi wouldn't feature but offered no explanation. Local media later reported he's expected to play for Inter Miami against Atlanta United in the MLS on Saturday before rejoining Argentina for Tuesday’s friendly against Puerto Rico.

Coach Lionel Scaloni clarified post match:

"I decided not to play Leo tonight"

Khaled Hegazy |

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Journaliste sportif spécialisé dans la couverture du football et la création de contenu numérique, alliant expérience éditoriale et expertise des médias sociaux.