Messi's Magical Assists Propel Argentina to Dominant 6-0 Rout Over Puerto Rico in Friendly Spectacle

In the vibrant confines of Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, the Argentine national football team delivered a masterclass on October 14, 2025, dismantling Puerto Rico 6-0 in an international friendly. While the scoreline suggests a one-sided affair, the true highlight was Lionel Messi's mesmerizing performance, where the Inter Miami star, playing the full 90 minutes, orchestrated the attack with two sublime assists and a hand in another goal. This match, relocated from its original venue due to logistical reasons, showcased Argentina's depth and Messi's enduring genius, even as the reigning World Cup champions prepare for the 2026 tournament.

Chase Stadium buzzes with excitement during the Argentina vs Puerto Rico friendly on October 14, 2025.

The build-up to this encounter was laced with intrigue. Argentina, already qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a stellar qualifying campaign, used this friendly to fine-tune their squad. Puerto Rico, ranked significantly lower in FIFA standings, viewed the game as a rare opportunity to test themselves against elite opposition. Played before a passionate crowd of over 20,000, many donning Messi's No. 10 jersey, the atmosphere was electric from the outset. Coach Lionel Scaloni fielded a strong side, including Messi, to maintain momentum post their recent 1-0 win over Venezuela.

From kickoff, Argentina asserted dominance. The first half was a testament to their tactical superiority, with Messi pulling the strings in midfield. In the 19th minute, Alexis Mac Allister opened the scoring after Messi's initial shot was parried by Puerto Rico goalkeeper Joel Serrano, allowing the Liverpool midfielder to slot home the rebound. This goal stemmed directly from Messi's vision—a precise through ball that dissected the defense, highlighting his playmaking prowess. Messi's influence grew as the half progressed; his movement off the ball created spaces that Puerto Rico struggled to fill.

The floodgates opened just before halftime. In the 43rd minute, Messi delivered a pinpoint cross from the right flank, finding Lautaro Martinez unmarked in the box. The Inter Milan striker headed it powerfully into the net, making it 2-0. Barely two minutes later, in stoppage time, Messi struck again with another assist—this time a delicate chip over the defense to Julian Alvarez, who volleyed home with aplomb. These back-to-back goals underscored Messi's ability to turn defense into attack in an instant, leaving Puerto Rico's backline in disarray. By halftime, Argentina led 3-0, with Messi directly involved in all three strikes.

The second half saw Argentina maintain their relentless pressure. Thiago Almada added the fourth in the 69th minute, capitalizing on a loose ball after Messi's surging run drew defenders away. Giovani Lo Celso and Nicolas Gonzalez completed the rout with goals in the 84th and 86th minutes, respectively. While Messi didn't find the net himself—despite coming close with a curling effort saved brilliantly by Serrano—his contributions were pivotal. He finished with two assists, breaking the world record for the most international assists in history, now standing at 60 for Argentina alone. His stats were staggering: 88 touches, 81% pass accuracy, four chances created, and two big chances, earning him a perfect 10.0 match rating.

Lionel Messi in action, setting up a goal during Argentina’s commanding win over Puerto Rico.

Messi's performance was the focal point, but other stars shone brightly. Lautaro Martinez and Julian Alvarez were clinical in front of goal, benefiting from Messi's creativity. Alexis Mac Allister's energy in midfield complemented Messi's vision, while the defense, led by Cristian Romero, kept a clean sheet with minimal fuss. Emiliano Martinez in goal had a quiet night, facing just one shot on target. For Puerto Rico, coached by Charlie Trout, the match was a learning experience. Players like Gerald Diaz showed flashes of resilience, but the gulf in class was evident. Serrano's heroics in goal prevented an even larger margin, with several key saves denying Argentina further goals.

Post-match, Messi reflected on his record-breaking night: "It's always special to represent Argentina, and breaking records is a bonus. The team played brilliantly today." Coach Scaloni praised his captain: "Leo is timeless. His assists were pure magic, and he inspires everyone around him." The victory extended Argentina's unbeaten run to eight matches in 2025, reinforcing their status as favorites for the 2026 World Cup. Social media erupted with praise, as one X user noted: "Messi makes history once again, 60 assists for Argentina, the most ever by any player for a national team."

Historically, this match adds to Argentina's impressive record in friendlies, where they've won 15 of their last 20. For Messi, it was his 185th cap, bringing his international goal tally to 109 (though scoreless here) and assists to a record 60. This performance comes amid his stellar MLS season with Inter Miami, where he's scored 20 goals and provided 16 assists in 2025. The friendly also highlighted the growing ties between Argentine football and the U.S., with the match held at Messi's club home, Chase Stadium—drawing a diverse crowd eager to witness the GOAT in action.

Argentina players, including Messi, celebrate one of their six goals in the emphatic victory over Puerto Rico.

For Puerto Rico, the defeat is a stepping stone. As a CONCACAF nation, facing South American giants like Argentina provides invaluable exposure. Their federation aims to build on this for future qualifiers, with young talents gaining experience against world-class opposition. The match was relocated from Puerto Rico due to stadium issues, but the exposure in the U.S. could boost their profile.

Looking ahead, Argentina's preparations for the 2026 World Cup intensify. With an expanded 48-team format, they aim to defend their title on North American soil. Messi's form suggests he'll be central to that quest, potentially in his final major tournament. Upcoming friendlies against Angola and India in November will offer more opportunities to experiment. This 6-0 thrashing serves as a reminder: even in friendlies, Argentina—and Messi—mean business.

In a game defined by dominance and dazzle, Messi's assists were the cherry on top, proving why he's still the undisputed king of football. As the Albiceleste march toward 2026, the world watches in awe.