Lionel Messi came off the bench to score from the penalty spot in Argentina's 3-0 friendly win over Iceland on Tuesday at Jordan-Hare Stadium in Auburn, Alabama, offering an encouraging injury update ahead of the FIFA World Cup.

Messi entered in the 70th minute and converted the penalty shortly after. The goal was his 911th for club and country and 117th for Argentina, making him the oldest scorer in the nation's soccer history.

Ezequiel Barco opened the scoring in the first half, and Thiago Almada added a third after Messi's penalty. The result gave Argentina two consecutive friendly wins heading into their World Cup opener against Algeria on June 16.

Messi had reported to Argentina's training camp last week while managing muscle fatigue in his left hamstring. He had exited Inter Miami's final MLS match against the Philadelphia Union in the 73rd minute before the league's World Cup break, with the club later confirming the injury. His recovery was described as day-to-day.

Scaloni had managed his captain's workload carefully in the buildup, noting Messi began partial training with the squad last Friday. He sat out Argentina's friendly win over Honduras on Saturday at Texas A&M.

"We're going to distribute the minutes of the players who will play tomorrow to try to avoid any mishaps," said Scaloni.

Argentina open World Cup play against Algeria on June 16 as they look to defend their 2022 title. Polymarket lists Argentina with the fourth best World Cup odds at nine percent.

Want to trade on the World Cup? New Polymarket users can claim a $50 welcome bonus with a $20 deposit. Use promo code ACQUIRE04 at sign-up or claim the Polymarket welcome offer through RealGM.

Must be 18 years or older. Terms and conditions apply.