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Messi, Paz Back as Argentina Preps for World Cup Opener

ESPN Soccer •
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Argentina’s squad readies for the World Cup opener after a series of injury recoveries. Nico Paz, 21, returned to training on Sunday after a knee knock in May, positioning him for the Tuesday warm‑up against Iceland in Auburn, Alabama. His comeback signals a deeper roster for coach Scaloni ahead of the tournament kickoff tomorrow.

Lionel Messi, 38, has eased muscle fatigue in his left hamstring since May 25, when the veteran left the field during Inter Miami play. Watching from the bench, he saw Argentina defeat Honduras 2-0 in a Saturday friendly. Scaloni noted Messi is "doing well" and could see minutes against Iceland in the warm‑up session tonight.

Emiliano Martínez and Leandro Paredes continue separate rehab sessions, with expectations to rejoin before the Algeria clash on June 16. Their absences have left Argentina’s defensive options thinner, but the coach trusts their return timing. The squad’s gradual healing will be tested in the forthcoming friendly, setting a tone for the tournament ahead of the World Cup.

The squad’s recovery trajectory will define Argentina’s readiness for the opening match, with key players poised to return as the tournament approaches.