Argentina vs. Guatemala: Messi Scores Twice in 4-1 Win
Lineups and Warm-ups
The lineups for the match were announced an hour before kickoff, and the players took to the field for warm-ups shortly after. Argentina started with a strong side, including Lionel Messi, Sergio Aguero, and Paulo Dybala, while Guatemala fielded a more experimental lineup.
Match Summary
Guatemala surprised Argentina by taking an early lead in the fourth minute, when a cross from the left wing was headed into his own net by Nicolas Otamendi. Argentina responded quickly, however, and equalized in the 12th minute through Lautaro Martinez. Messi then put Argentina ahead in the 22nd minute with a stunning free kick, and he added another goal in the 34th minute to give Argentina a 3-1 lead at halftime.
Guatemala came out strong in the second half, but they were unable to find a way past the Argentine defense. Messi completed his hat-trick in the 64th minute, and the match ended 4-1 in favor of Argentina.
Post-Match Reaction
After the match, Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni praised Messi's performance, saying that he was "unplayable" at times. Messi himself said that he was happy to score two goals and help Argentina to victory.
Guatemala coach Walter Claverà said that he was proud of his team's performance, despite the defeat. He said that Guatemala had learned a lot from the match and that they would use the experience to improve in the future.
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