Messi Absent as Argentina Edge Venezuela 1-0 in Miami Friendly

Argentina proved their depth once again, claiming a 1-0 win over Venezuela in a friendly international at the Hard Rock Stadium, Miami, on Friday — despite the absence of captain Lionel Messi.

The reigning world champions sealed the victory through a 31st-minute strike by Giovani Lo Celso, who finished off a slick team move to beat Venezuela goalkeeper Jose Contreras with a precise left-foot shot.

Messi, who was rested, watched from the stands as Julian Alvarez and Lautaro Martinez led the attack with confidence. Both forwards were instrumental in creating the decisive goal, combining neatly before setting up Lo Celso.

Although the 65,000-capacity stadium saw a modest turnout of about 15,000 spectators, Argentina controlled the match from start to finish and were rarely troubled by their South American rivals.

Defender Nahuel Molina also stood out with an impressive performance on the flank, while Argentina maintained composure throughout to extend their strong run of form.

The game marked the first of two friendlies Argentina will play in Florida during the international window. Their next fixture is against Puerto Rico in Fort Lauderdale on Tuesday, after the match was relocated from Chicago’s Soldier Field due to a US government immigration crackdown.

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