Introduction – The context of the friendly match between Puerto Rico and Argentina
The friendly match between Puerto Rico and Argentina, played at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale (USA), on the night of October 14, 2025, marked another chapter in the Argentine national team’s preparation for the 2026 World Cup. The stadium, with a capacity for around 21,000 fans, welcomed an enthusiastic crowd — mostly Argentines — who transformed the atmosphere into a “mini Monumental de Núñez” in the United States.
The match, initially scheduled for Chicago, was relocated for logistical and security reasons. Even so, expectations were sky-high. Messi was returning to “his American home,” where he plays for Inter Miami, adding an emotional and symbolic atmosphere.
For Puerto Rico, the match was treated as a historic event. Facing the world champions would be the perfect opportunity to test their limits and gain international exposure. Argentina, on the other hand, saw the game as a tactical laboratory, giving minutes to players like Flaco López, Enzo Fernández, Lautaro Martínez, and Gonzalo Montiel.
Furthermore, the game was a celebration of Lionel Messi’s mature phase, who not only commanded the midfield masterfully, but also broke a new record for assists for the national team — further cementing his legacy.
Pre-match scenario and team momentum
Argentina arrived in high spirits, coming off a string of impressive wins in friendlies and the South American Qualifiers. Coach Lionel Scaloni made it clear that the priority was to test the balance between starters and reserves, without losing offensive fluidity.
Puerto Rico was already undergoing a period of rebuilding. The Caribbean team has invested in infrastructure and youth development, but still faces competitive difficulties against traditional teams. The friendly was treated realistically: the focus would be on resistance, learning, and trying to surprise on the counterattack.
In the Argentine locker room, the message was clear—show intensity, technical mastery, and maintain the world-champion standard. On the Puerto Rican side, the coach emphasized tactical discipline and maximizing every attacking play.
First half – total dominance by Argentina
Argentina started the game pressing high, with advanced lines and a high tempo. The first goal came in the 14th minute, with Alexis Mac Allister finishing after a rebound inside the box. The early goal opened up space and forced Puerto Rico to retreat further.
In the 23rd minute, the stroke of genius came: Messi, with a pinpoint pass over the top, found Gonzalo Montiel, who tapped it past the goalkeeper — 2-0. It was the number 10’s first magical pass of the night.
Even with the lead, La Albiceleste didn’t slow down. In the 36th minute, after a perfect triangle between Messi, Flaco López, and Mac Allister, the third goal came—3-0, crowning a first half of absolute supremacy.
Puerto Rico had only one real chance, a long-range shot, which was well saved by Dibu Martínez. Overall, the first half was a veritable Argentine monologue, with superior possession and a wide range of attacking options.
Second half – rout and Messi show
The final stage brought little change to Argentina’s approach. The team maintained complete control and continued creating chances. In the 64th minute, Montiel’s cross deflected off Echevarría, scoring an own goal: 4-0 Argentina.
With the substitutions, the game gained new momentum. Lautaro Martínez, who had come on in the second half, extended the lead in the 79th minute, following another sweet pass from Messi. And it didn’t stop there—in the 84th minute, the number 22 sealed the rout with another classy touch from Messi, this time with a backheel, sealing the final 6-0.
The crowd roared to their feet, celebrating the star’s every play and the team’s collective intensity. Argentina demonstrated team chemistry and depth. Puerto Rico, despite failing to react, left the field with a clear understanding and recognition of their technical differences.
Messi breaks all-time assist record
Lionel Messi reached 60 official assists for the Argentine national team, surpassing historic records in South American football. Even without finding the net, he was the star of the match.
The number 10 distributed the play with surgical precision, dropping back between the midfielders and creating space. His two assists extended his lead in direct goal involvements for the national team—a record that reinforces his longevity and tactical importance.
Beyond the numbers, the performance symbolized the star’s new phase: less explosiveness, more control and game intelligence. Messi dictated the team’s rhythm and showed that he is still the creative heart of the world champions.
Tactical analysis – structure, movement and intensity
Argentina played a 4-3-3 formation, alternating between a 4-2-3-1 with Messi dropping back as a false midfielder. Scaloni maintained high possession, short passing, and full-backs providing constant support.
De Paul and Enzo Fernández were the driving forces in the middle, while Mac Allister and Montiel explored the wings. This fluidity allowed for dynamic plays and quick triangulations.
Puerto Rico tried to react with low blocks, but found no alternatives. The physical and tactical difference was evident. Even so, the Puerto Rican goalkeeper made good saves and prevented an even bigger score.
Argentina’s system is now a world benchmark: compactness, coordinated pressure, and high technical precision. Even in friendlies, the team maintains championship standards.
Puerto Rico vs Argentina Statistics
Statistic | Argentina | Puerto Rico |
---|---|---|
Final score | 6 | 0 |
Ball possession | 69% | 31% |
Total completions | 25 | 5 |
Finishes on target | 11 | 2 |
Corners | 8 | 1 |
Yellow cards | 0 | 0 |
Goalkeeper saves | 3 | 6 |
Messi’s assists | 2 | — |
Goals per player | Mac Allister (2), Montiel (1), Lautaro (2), against (1) | — |
These numbers reinforce Argentina’s supremacy and the efficiency of a squad that, even in friendlies, demonstrates harmony and offensive power.
Repercussion and behind the scenes of the friendly match
After the game, the backstage atmosphere was pure celebration. Messi was surrounded by fans and teammates who gave him a standing ovation. Coach Scaloni praised the squad’s commitment and professionalism in a game that, despite being a friendly, was treated seriously.
Puerto Rico, for its part, recognized the technical differences and valued the learning experience. The local coach emphasized that facing Messi and company was “a privilege and a learning experience for future generations.”
The Argentine fans in Fort Lauderdale experienced an unforgettable night — chants, flags and excitement transformed the friendly match into a spectacle.
Argentina’s upcoming commitments
Argentina returns to the field in November for two more international friendlies before the start of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. The expectation is for new opportunities for young talent and the maintenance of the champion base.
Messi should continue to be called up, but with limited minutes. Scaloni is already considering a gradual transition of leadership to Enzo Fernández and Mac Allister, without losing the essence of team play.
Conclusion – Puerto Rico vs Argentina
The Puerto Rico-Argentina friendly (0-6) was much more than a rout. It was the reaffirmation of a generation that continues to dominate the world stage and the celebration of a star who still sets the pace of modern football.
Messi left the field to a standing ovation, breaking records and enchanting once again. Argentina proved that even in preparatory matches, it maintains seriousness, tactical consistency, and a hunger for victory.
For Puerto Rico, the result is tough, but the lesson learned is invaluable — facing the world champion brings lessons that go beyond the score.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Puerto Rico vs Argentina
- What was the score of Puerto Rico vs. Argentina?
Argentina won 6-0 in an international friendly. - How many assists did Messi make, and what record did he break?
He made two assists and reached 60 decisive passes for the national team, becoming the all-time leading assist maker in international matches. - Who were the top scorers in the duel?
Alexis Mac Allister (2), Gonzalo Montiel, Lautaro Martínez (2) and an own goal from Echevarría. - Where was the friendly played?
Chase Stadium, Florida (USA). - Did Messi score a goal in this match?
No, his participation was through decisive passes, not goals. - What impact does this result have on Argentina?
It boosts morale, builds team spirit, and solidifies Messi’s position as a maestro; it serves as solid preparation for future competitions. - What does this assist record mean for his career?
It reinforces that Messi isn’t just a goalscorer: he’s one of the greatest creators in international history.