Argentina’s first match in the post-Lionel Messi era ended in disappointment as Uruguay claimed a 2-1 victory at La Bombonera on Friday.

In their first outing since Messi’s international farewell, the world champions showed spells of control but lacked the cutting edge and defensive composure needed to mark the new chapter with a win.

How did Argentina perform?

Argentina dominated possession and created the better openings in the first half. Julián Álvarez tested Uruguay goalkeeper Cristopher Fiermarín, while Alexis Mac Allister and Enzo Fernández also looked to threaten. Nico Paz offered some flashes of invention between the lines, but the hosts struggled to turn their control into a goal. Uruguay stayed compact and looked to exploit openings on the counter.

The match changed immediately after the interval. Uruguay took the lead in the 48th minute when a dangerous set-piece delivery from Giorgian de Arrascaeta caused confusion in the box. After the ball was flicked on, Leonardo Balerdi inadvertently turned it into his own net. Five minutes later, Uruguay struck again. De Arrascaeta’s corner found Maxi Araújo, whose touch at the far post sent the ball beyond goalkeeper Gerónimo Rulli to make it 2-0.

Argentina had to respond, and the introduction of Gianluca Prestianni brought a fresh attacking spark. The youngster drove into the penalty area from the left before squaring the ball for Álvarez, who finished first-time in the 73rd minute to cut the deficit. The goal lifted the home side, who pushed for an equaliser, but Uruguay held firm.

No Lionel Messi, No Party for Argentina

The defeat exposed issues Argentina must address without their long-time captain. Their possession did not consistently translate into clear chances, while two defensive lapses from set-pieces proved costly. Yet the performance was not without promise: Álvarez remained a threat, and Prestianni’s direct running offered a glimpse of the attacking options available to Lionel Scaloni.

But Messi’s absence was felt as the Albiceleste looked jaded at times without their talisman. As they embrace life after Messi, Lionel Scaloni and his men will have to find inspiration as the old guard is not there anymore.

Argentina suffer first defeat in 14 months

The defeat against Uruguay is also Argentina’s first in 14 months within 90 minutes. Their last defeat within normal time came against Ecuador back in September 2025, when they lost 1-0 courtesy of an Enner Valencia penalty.

Interestingly, Uruguay were also the last team to beat them on home soil, back in 2023 when the Celeste won 2-0 courtesy of goals from Ronald Araujo and Darwin Nunez.