Argentina defeat Venezuela in friendly sans Messi

Without Lionel Messi on the pitch, Argentina still managed a comfortable 1-0 win against Venezuela during a friendly match in Miami on Friday.

Giovani Lo Celso scored a cleverly constructed goal in the 31st minute to clinch the result for the current world champions, with the game drawing only 15,000 supporters to the 65,000-capacity Hard Rock Stadium.

Messi, who plays for Inter Miami, observed from the spectator area as Argentinas national side, the Albiceleste, controlled the game without facing significant pressure from their opponents.

Forwards Julian Alvarez and Lautaro Martinez remained dangerous all game, and defender Nahuel Molina caught the eye with his display.

Alvarez and Martinez played key roles in the decisive strike, linking up smoothly to tee up Lo Celso for a sharp left-footed finish that evaded Venezuela keeper Jose Contreras.

This encounter represents the opening fixture of a pair of friendlies that Argentina will contest in Florida across the international period.

The title holders are set to take on Puerto Rico in Fort Lauderdale next Tuesday, following a shift from Chicagos Soldier Field earlier this week owing to the US administrations persistent measures regarding immigrants.