Uruguay defeats Argentina 2-1 in first match since Lionel Messi retirement

Uruguay defeated Argentina 2-1 in an international friendly at La Bombonera in Buenos Aires on November 14, 2026. This match represented the first appearance for the Argentine national team following the retirement of Lionel Messi in October 2026. The result marks the beginning of a new era for the Argentine squad.

Uruguay secures victory

Uruguay opened the scoring in the 48th minute when Leonardo Balerdi scored an own goal, giving the visiting side a 1-0 lead. Maximiliano Araújo expanded the lead for Uruguay in the 53th minute following a corner kick delivered by Giorgian de Arrascaeta. Argentina responded later in the match when Julián Álvarez scored in the 72nd or 73rd minute following a cross from Gianluca Prestianni.

The match was coached by Diego Forlán for the Uruguayan side. Despite the loss, Argentina maintained 72% ball possession throughout the contest and recorded 17 shots on goal. Approximately 20,000 spectators attended the match, which represented nearly 40% of the stadium capacity.

Post-Messi era transitions

The match served as the inaugural appearance for Argentina in the post-Messi era. As a tribute to the retired footballer, Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni left the number 10 jersey vacant during the match. Following the conclusion of the game, it was confirmed that Lionel Scaloni extended his contract as the manager of Argentina through the 2030 World Cup.

Argentine goalkeeper Gerónimo Rulli commented on the performance, stating that while starting with a loss is sad, the team is on the right path and has a promising future. Lionel Scaloni noted that the result provides good elements for analysis and suggested that the team's own fatigue was a factor. The manager added that responsibility should not be placed on the young players regarding the outcome.

Upcoming international fixtures

Both teams prepare for upcoming international fixtures scheduled for Tuesday. Argentina will play against Costa Rica in Córdoba. Uruguay is scheduled to play against the Dominican Republic.

Uruguayan player Ronald Araújo stated that the victory helps the team continue growing. The match at La Bombonera highlighted the transition of the Argentine national team as they move forward without Lionel Messi.

Glossary

• Buenos Aires — Buenos Aires is a city that serves as the capital of the State of Buenos Aires. It is also the location of the Municipalidad de la Ciudad de Buenos Aires.
• Córdoba — Córdoba is a city where association football is the most popular sport. Basketball and rugby union are also popular sports in the area.
• own goal — An own goal is a goal caused by a player that results in a goal for the opposing side.
• corner kick — A corner kick is a play used to restart the game after the ball goes out of bounds.