Argentina suffered a 2-1 defeat against Uruguay in their first match since Lionel Messi’s retirement, with goals from Leonardo Balerdi (og) and Maxi Araujo.

BUENOS AIRES: Argentina suffered a 2-1 defeat against Uruguay on Friday in their first game since Lionel Messi’s retirement from international football.

A second-half own goal by Argentina defender Leonardo Balerdi followed by a fluky effort from Uruguay midfielder Maxi Araujo sealed defeat for the 2026 World Cup runners-up.

Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alavarez gave Argentina hope of a comeback with a 73rd-minute strike but Uruguay held on to clinch a third victory for new manager Diego Forlan.