Argentina secure 2-0 win over Honduras ahead of World Cup 2026

Argentina delivered a controlled and convincing 2-0 victory over Honduras in their penultimate warm-up match ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026, played in Texas on Saturday. Despite a relatively quiet atmosphere in College Station, the reigning world champions showed flashes of their trademark dominance as they continue fine-tuning their squad.

Goals from Lautaro Martinez and Giuliano Simeone ensured a comfortable win for the South American side, who controlled possession for large spells and rarely allowed Honduras to settle into the game.

The breakthrough came in the 37th minute after Nicolás Tagliafico was brought down inside the box by Cristopher Meléndez. Martinez stepped up with confidence, sending a low penalty into the corner to give Argentina a deserved lead. The Inter Milan striker looked sharp throughout, constantly troubling the Honduran backline with his movement and pressing.

Argentina doubled their advantage shortly after the restart in the 54th minute. Martinez turned provider this time, producing a clever backheel inside the box that opened space for Simeone, who calmly slotted the ball past goalkeeper Edrick Menjívar to make it 2-0.

Even without their biggest star on the pitch, Argentina’s attacking rhythm remained fluid. Lionel Messi started on the bench as he continues his recovery from a hamstring injury sustained in late May. Coach Lionel Scaloni opted for caution, preferring to ease the captain back into full fitness ahead of the tournament.

Honduras struggled to impose themselves, often pinned deep in their own half. Argentina’s midfield dominance meant the Central American side barely crossed the halfway line in the second half. Giovani Lo Celso came close to adding a third when his curling strike rattled the crossbar, while another effort from Tomas Aranda was well saved.

Despite the comfortable scoreline, Scaloni remained measured in his assessment, emphasizing identity over result. He noted that even with younger players involved, Argentina’s structure and philosophy remained intact as they prepare to defend their crown.

Argentina will now shift focus to their final friendly against Iceland in Alabama before opening their World Cup campaign against Algeria on June 16 in Kansas City. Messi’s potential involvement in the final warm-up remains a key talking point, with expectations rising ahead of the global tournament.