The Argentina national team continues to showcase its dominance in the friendly against Puerto Rico, and Lionel Messi once again stole the spotlight with a stunning assist that left the crowd at Chase Stadium breathless. The No. 10 was heavily involved in the build-up to Argentina’s second goal of the night, which further cemented their control in the first half.

Messi, the genius and creator behind the second goal

The second goal came from a brilliant team move orchestrated by Lionel Scaloni’s side. After a series of precise passes, Messi appeared inside the box and displayed all his class: he lifted his head and, with a delicate touch, lofted the ball over the defense to perfectly set up Gonzalo Montiel, who volleyed it past goalkeeper Cutler de Jesús in the 23rd minute.

The crowd erupted in applause as the Argentine players celebrated with their captain — the architect of a flawless assist that once again highlighted his unmatched vision and creativity.

Mac Allister extends the lead with the third goal

The Argentine show continued. In the 36th minute, Alexis Mac Allister scored the third goal after another play initiated by Messi, who switched the ball from right to left with a pinpoint pass. The move ended with José Manuel López laying it off perfectly for the Liverpool midfielder, who struck powerfully into the back of the net.

With that, Argentina went into halftime with a comfortable 3–0 lead over Puerto Rico, displaying dominant football and a lethal connection between Messi, Molina, and Mac Allister — three key players in a first half filled with flair, precision, and brilliance.