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Lionel Messi returned to international duty with Argentina on Friday for the first time since the 2018 World Cup in Russia.
Messi's back in the @Argentina starting XI for the first time in 256 days, the longest period of time between international appearances for La Albiceleste's all-time leading goalscorer ⤵️
— FIFA.com (@FIFAcom) March 22, 2019
However, it was not a happy return for the Barcelona captain, as Lionel Scaloni’s side were beaten 3-1 by Venezuela at Atletico Madrid’s Wanda Metropolitano Stadium.
Newcastle United striker Salomon Rondon opened the scoring after just six minutes of the game, and Jhon Murillo made it 2-0 just before half-time.
Messi did provide some flashes of inspiration in the first half. A brilliant run and cross found Lautaro Martínez, but he could not beat the goalkeeper who saved his header.
Lionel Messi's international comeback is... not going well .
— Match of the Day (@BBCMOTD) March 22, 2019
Argentina trail Venezuela 2-0 in their friendly match.
Details here https://t.co/q24ROtUpH6 pic.twitter.com/EB15Xlr16D
Argentina pulled one back in the second half just before the hour mark through Martínez after great work from Messi and Giovani Lo Celso.
However, Venezuela restored their two-goal lead from the penalty spot. Josef Martinez netted after Juan Foyth fouled Darwin Machis.
Argentina now head to Morocco for a friendly on Tuesday, although it’s not clear yet if Messi will play in that game.