Match Overview
Argentina secured a 1-0 victory over Venezuela in an international friendly football match held on Friday, October 10, 2025, at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, Florida. The decisive goal came from midfielder Giovani Lo Celso in the 31st minute, ensuring Argentina's win despite the absence of captain Lionel Messi.
The match saw Argentina, under coach Lionel Scaloni, control possession with approximately 68.6% and register 11 shots on target from 19 attempts. Venezuelan goalkeeper Jose Contreras was a standout performer, making several crucial saves that prevented a wider margin of victory for the Albiceleste.
Key Moments and Goal Details
The lone goal of the evening was a well-executed play in the first half. Julian Alvarez and Lautaro Martinez combined effectively around the box, drawing defenders before setting up Giovani Lo Celso. Lo Celso then struck a powerful left-footed shot past Contreras, giving Argentina the lead.
Despite Argentina's dominance in creating opportunities, Venezuela nearly equalized in the 74th minute when Teo Quintero's close-range effort hit the crossbar. Other notable attempts for Argentina included a shot from Nico Paz that was deflected onto the post and multiple efforts from Lautaro Martinez, all denied by Contreras.
Messi's Absence and Team Dynamics
Lionel Messi, the Inter Miami star, was notably absent from the field, watching the game from the stands with his family. Coach Lionel Scaloni confirmed that Messi was rested for the match, a decision made to manage his workload after a demanding MLS season and ahead of upcoming fixtures. This friendly was part of Argentina's preparations, allowing Scaloni to experiment with the lineup and provide playing time to other squad members.
The match was attended by approximately 15,000 fans in the 65,000-capacity Hard Rock Stadium. This fixture was the first of two friendlies for Argentina in Florida during the international break, with the team scheduled to play Puerto Rico next.
Statistical Highlights
- Final Score: Argentina 1, Venezuela 0
- Goal Scorer: Giovani Lo Celso (31st minute)
- Venue: Hard Rock Stadium, Miami, Florida
- Possession: Argentina 68.6%
- Shots on Target: Argentina 11
- Attendance: Approximately 15,000
5 Comments
Katchuka
Scaloni's rotations are working. Solid performance.
Eugene Alta
Empty stadium for a national team game. Friendlies are losing their appeal.
KittyKat
Argentina controlled possession and created many opportunities, but only converting one goal from eleven shots on target suggests a need for more clinical finishing.
Loubianka
While Venezuela's goalkeeper had an outstanding performance, Argentina's dominance in creating chances should have resulted in a wider margin, raising questions about their attacking efficiency.
Habibi
It's smart for Scaloni to test new players and tactics without Messi, though the low stadium attendance indicates these exhibition matches might not excite fans as much.