A goal from Leo Messi gave Argentina victory over Croatia in Wednesday’s friendly encounter that took place in London. The Barça man’s second half strike gave his side a 2-1 victory in the friendly in which Javier Mascherano played all 90 minutes for the team coached by former FC Barcelona boss Gerardo Martino. Croatia for their part were without the rested Ivan Rakitic, the midfielder being kept back for their important Euro 2016 qualifier against Italy on Sunday. However, Barça B midfielder Alen Halilovic came on for the second half against the South Americans.
Croatia take lead
The game came to life with an early goal from Sharbini after good work from Kovacic. The Argentinians had put out a full strength side in contrast to the Croatians who had rested several players ahead of Sunday’s trip to Rome. Despite falling behind Messi and company dominated the first half but could not find the equalizer as they went in at the break a goal down.
Second half comeback
Atlético Madrid defender Cristian Ansaldi leveled things up after half time with a shot that took a deflection off Sergio Agüero. Just a few minutes later the Manchester City striker was brought in the box and Leo Messi converted the penalty to give Argentina the winner.
