Argentina secured a 2-1 win over Mauritania in a friendly game on Friday, March 27, but it sparked a concern among fans because of reigning world champions' struggling show against the 115th FIFA ranked side.
Argentina secures narrow win over Mauritania
In the game, Enzo Fernandez and Nico Paz registered goals for Argentina in the first half, before Jordan Lefort scored the only goal for Mauritania in the dying stages of the game.
At the half time, Lionel Messi came in as a substitute but could not perform as per the expectations, as he is coming after a red-hot.
After the game, Argentina's star goalkeeper, Emi Martinez criticised the side for their lacksture outing against a weak opponent. He labelled the performance as Argentina's "one of the worst" games so far even in a friendly game.
Martinez said that the Albiceleste were missing the intensity and defensive stability.
"It was one of the worst games we’ve played, even for a friendly. We lacked play and speed. We need a bit more heart. We lacked intensity, defensive solidity, and conviction when defending. Maybe it's good we didn’t play the Finalissima if we were going to play like this."
Next challenge for Argentina
Argentina will lock horns with Zambia in their next international friendly on Tuesday, March 31. Lionel Messi and co. will look to improve and work on the insights given by their star goalkeeper.