The Argentina national team continues to strengthen its path toward the 2026 World Cup with another victory, this time a 1–0 win over Venezuela at Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium. Without Lionel Messi, who watched the game from a box alongside his family, Lionel Scaloni’s side displayed solidity, balance, and great adaptability. A goal from Giovani Lo Celso was enough to make the difference in a match where the standout performer was Venezuelan goalkeeper José Contreras, who prevented a much larger scoreline.

Lo Celso’s left-footed strike decides the match

The only goal of the night came in the 31st minute, following an excellent attacking sequence by the Albiceleste. Lautaro Martínez set up Giovani Lo Celso, who struck a powerful left-footed shot across goal, beating Contreras. It was a goal of quality and determination—an example of Argentina’s patience and precision when facing tightly organized defenses.

The Real Betis midfielder celebrated his goal with a special tribute: forming an “M” with his fingers and kissing the sky in honor of the late coach Miguel Ángel Russo. The gesture moved both his teammates and the fans, who chanted his name from the stands.

For the remainder of the first half, Argentina maintained full control of possession, though Contreras denied several close attempts from Lautaro Martínez, Julián Álvarez, and Enzo Fernández with a series of spectacular saves.

Scaloni tests new options while Contreras shines for Venezuela

The second half brought a wave of substitutions for both teams. Scaloni used the friendly to assess players competing for a spot in the final 2026 squad, including Nicolás González, Giuliano Simeone, Alexis Mac Allister, Rodrigo De Paul, and Leonardo Balerdi. The latter had two clear headers, as did Marcos Senesi, but once again the Venezuelan goalkeeper shone with his sharp reflexes.

Meanwhile, Oswaldo Vizcarrondo, interim coach of La Vinotinto, relied on a young squad that left a good impression despite the defeat. His team even came close to equalizing with a header from Alejandro Marqués and a powerful shot from Kevin Kelsy that hit the crossbar in the closing minutes.

The scoreline didn’t change, but La Albiceleste made it clear that its system continues to run smoothly—even without its captain. With this win, Argentina extends its positive streak and heads confidently into its next match against Puerto Rico, while Venezuela will face Belize looking to bounce back.