Argentina suffered a 2-1 defeat against Uruguay on Friday in their first game since Lionel Messi retired from international football.
The 2026 World Cup runners-up fell behind following a bizarre second-half own goal from Argentina defender Leonardo Balerdi, which was compounded by a lucky strike from Uruguay midfielder Maxi Araujo. Diego Forlan’s Uruguay secured their third win under their new manager despite a 73rd-minute goal from Atletico Madrid forward Julian Alvarez that gave Argentina hope of a comeback.
Last month, Messi concluded his legendary international career—which featured 207 caps and 125 goals—with an emotional farewell friendly win against Benin. During Friday’s friendly, Argentina labored for large periods to break down a stubborn Uruguay team as they played without their 39-year-old talisman.
Uruguay goalkeeper Cristopher Fiermarin denied Nico Paz, who wasted Argentina’s finest opportunity of the opening period with a shot that was well-saved. Uruguay broke the deadlock shortly after the interval when a left-wing free-kick delivered by Giorgian de Arrascaeta caused pandemonium inside the Argentina penalty area.
Lisandro Martinez, the Manchester United defender, tried to head the ball away, but his clearance ricocheted off his colleague Balerdi and into the back of the net. In the 53rd minute, De Arrascaeta contributed to Uruguay’s second goal by sending in a corner that appeared to strike Araujo’s shoulder before looping high past the goalkeeper.
Uruguay ultimately secured the victory, though Alvarez scored midway through the second half and missed another promising opportunity during stoppage time.
| Match Details | Team / Player | Key Contribution |
|---|---|---|
| First Goal Conceded | Leonardo Balerdi (Own Goal) | Second-half deflection off Lisandro Martinez header |
| Second Goal Conceded | Maxi Araujo | 53rd-minute shoulder deflection from a corner |
| Argentina Goal | Julian Alvarez | 73rd-minute strike to narrow the deficit |
| Managerial Record | Diego Forlan | Clinched a third victory for Uruguay |
Although Alvarez reduced the deficit in the middle of the half and threatened again in additional time, Uruguay successfully held on to win.
