Lionel Messi left on bench as Argentina ease past Honduras

Argentina continued their preparations for the World Cup with a 2-0 victory over Honduras.

Without Lionel Messi, who injured a hamstring in his final game for Inter Miami before the tournament, the defending champions grabbed a goal either side of half-time.

Messi did take part in the warm-up but was left watching on the bench at College Station, Texas, as his side proved too strong even without the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner.

Manager Lionel Scaloni said Messi is “doing a lot better”, was able to train on Friday and could play some part in their final warm-up game against Iceland.

Lautaro Martinez gave Argentina the lead from the penalty spot seven minutes before the break after Nicolas Tagliafico had been brought down attempting to collect the rebound as Giovani Lo Celso‘s curling shot came back off the bar.

Martinez turned provider nine minutes after the restart, his clever back heel providing the opening for Giuliano Simeone to add the second.

Argentina face Iceland in Auburn, Alabama, on Tuesday before opening the defence of their title against Algeria in Kansas City a week later.