Argentina lose to Uruguay in first game since Messi’s international retirement

Argentina began life without Lionel Messi with a 2-1 defeat to Uruguay in an international friendly at La Bombonera on Friday.

According to Buenos Aires Times⁠, the 2026 World Cup runners-up struggled to break down a resilient Uruguay side, who secured a third consecutive victory under new manager Diego Forlán.

Argentina had the better opportunity in the first half through Nico Paz, but Uruguay goalkeeper Cristopher Fiermarin produced an important save to keep the scores level.

Uruguay took the lead shortly after the restart when a Giorgian de Arrascaeta free-kick caused confusion in the Argentine defence, resulting in Leonardo Balerdi turning the ball into his own net.

De Arrascaeta was involved again seven minutes later, delivering a corner that struck Maxi Araújo before looping into the net to double Uruguay’s advantage.

Julián Álvarez pulled one back in the 73rd minute, but Argentina could not find an equaliser.Messi retired after 207 appearances and 125 goals for Argentina.