Argentina Lose 2-1 to Uruguay in First Match After Messi’s Retirement

Argentina suffered a 2-1 defeat at home to Uruguay in their first match following Lionel Messi’s retirement. The Albiceleste, playing against Uruguay under Diego Forlán, were unable to recover after conceding an own goal, as Lionel Scaloni’s side fell to defeat.

The match was Argentina’s first fixture during the November international break. Neither side managed to score in the first half at the Alberto José Armando Stadium in Buenos Aires.

Uruguay took the lead in the 48th minute when Leonardo Balerdi inadvertently put the ball into his own net. Five minutes later, Maxi Araújo doubled the visitors’ advantage with a goal in the 53rd minute.

Argentina dominated possession with 78 percent of the ball and registered five shots on target from six attempts. However, they struggled to turn their dominance into goals. Julián Álvarez pulled one back in the 73rd minute for the three-time world champions, but Scaloni’s men ultimately suffered a 2-1 home defeat.

Argentina will face Costa Rica in Córdoba on November 18, with kick-off scheduled for 5:00 am Bangladesh time.