World champion Argentina recorded a 2-0 victory over Honduras in a friendly international football match, despite star player Lionel Messi not taking the field. Lautaro Martinez gave Argentina the lead with a penalty goal in the 37th minute, followed by a second goal from Giuliano Simeone in the 55th minute. Messi was rested due to fatigue in his left hamstring muscle. Kathmandu, June 7.
These friendly matches are part of the preparations ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026, with both Argentina and Brazil claiming wins. Brazil defeated Egypt 2-1 thanks to a decisive goal by young player Andrick. Bruno Guimarães and Andrick scored for Brazil, while Egypt’s Mostafa Ziko replied with a goal. Guimarães opened the scoring in the 8th minute to give Brazil the lead, but Ziko equalized in the 11th minute. Andrick netted the winning goal in the 53rd minute, assisted by Rafinha. Brazil played against Egypt without star forward Neymar.
