Miami, Oct 11 (UNI) Giovani Lo Celso struck in the first half as Argentina secured a 1-0 victory over Venezuela in their friendly here.
The reigning World Cup and Copa America champions took the lead just after the half hour when Lo Celso combined with Lautaro Martinez before his low shot ricocheted in off the right leg of goalkeeper Jose Contreras on Friday.
The Albiceleste had 11 shots on target but were repeatedly denied by 30-year-old Contreras, who was making only his seventh appearance for the Vinotinto.
Argentina was without captain and eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Lionel Messi, who was rested for the clash at Hard Rock Stadium.
“We played well in the first half but the first 25 minutes of the second weren’t great,” Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni told reporters.
“Then we made some changes, particularly in defense, and that made a difference.”
Scaloni said Messi would likely play in Argentina’s friendly against Puerto Rico in Fort Lauderdale on Tuesday.
