Uruguay wins Argentina’s first match since Messi’s international retirement

Uruguay beat Argentina 2-1 in Buenos Aires on Friday in Argentina’s first match since Lionel Messi retired from international soccer in October.

An own goal by Leonardo Balerdi broke the deadlock shortly after halftime, and Maximiliano Araújo doubled Uruguay’s advantage five minutes later. The victory came under new Uruguay coach Diego Forlán. Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni left the No. 10 jersey unassigned. Argentina next faces Costa Rica, while Uruguay hosts the Dominican Republic.

Associated Press