Messi Shines as Argentina Dominates Puerto Rico with Early 3-0 Lead in Fort Lauderdale
Argentina’s national football team showcased their talent with a dominant performance against Puerto Rico during an international friendly in Fort Lauderdale. The match, held at Chase Stadium on October 14, 2025, saw Lionel Messi return to the starting lineup, exciting fans with an early 3-0 lead.
Match Highlights
- Date: October 14, 2025
- Location: Chase Stadium, Fort Lauderdale, Florida
- Final Score: Argentina 3, Puerto Rico 0
- Goals:
- 14th Minute: Alexis Mac Allister (Header)
- 28th Minute: Gonzalo Montiel (Right-footed shot)
- 36th Minute: Alexis Mac Allister (Close-range blast)
- Tickets: Prices starting at $32
Team Composition
Argentina’s coach, Lionel Scaloni, took the opportunity to test various player combinations. The roster featured both experienced players and newcomers, including:
| Player | Position |
|---|---|
| Lionel Messi | Forward |
| Dibu Martinez | Goalkeeper |
| Gonzalo Montiel | Defender |
| Leonardo Balerdi | Defender |
| Nicolas Otamendi | Defender |
| Nico Gonzalez | Midfielder |
| Rodrigo De Paul | Midfielder |
| Alexis Mac Allister | Midfielder |
| Giovani Lo Celso | Midfielder |
| Giuliano Simeone | Forward |
| José “Flaco” Lopez | Forward |
Puerto Rico’s Squad
The Puerto Rican team faced challenges in an encounter where they were already out of World Cup contention. Their lineup included a mix of college players and professional talents. Notable players were:
- Sebastian Cutler (Goalkeeper, Villanova)
- Noeh Hernandez (Midfielder, DePaul)
- Players from USL club Miami FC:
- Nicolas Cardona (Defender)
- Gerald Diaz (Midfielder)
- Ricardo Rivera (Forward)
Looking Ahead
Argentina, the current World Cup champions, are preparing to defend their title next summer. The upcoming 2026 World Cup will take place across the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Argentina solidified their position in the South American qualifiers, finishing nine points ahead of Ecuador. Fans eagerly anticipate their performance in the next major tournament as Messi and the squad continue to build chemistry in these friendly matches.
