Lionel Messi's return to international football began miserably as Argentina fell to a disappointing 3-1 friendly defeat against Venezuela in Madrid.
The Barcelona superstar had not pulled on his national team colours since Argentina's loss to France in the last 16 of the World Cup in Russia last summer, but Messi was handed his 129th cap on Friday night.
However, Lionel Scaloni's Abiceleste were well off their best in the Spanish capital as goals from Salomon Rondon and John Murillo gave Venezuela a two-goal lead at the break.
Argentina toiled as Lautaro Martinez gave them hope by having the deficit just before the hour, but Josef Martinez's unique penalty - featuring a dummy during the run-up - made the game safe.
While the match may only have been a friendly, the result will be a reminder to both Argentina and Messi of how much work must be done to make his return worthwhile.
Relive the action with Standard Sport!
Additional reporting by the Press Association.
