Lionel Messi had a penalty saved as Argentina were held 1-1 by World Cup newcomers Iceland in an opening Group D game in Moscow on Saturday.
Keeper Hannes Halldorsson parried Messi’s 64th-minute shot to keep out what would have been a sixth Messi goal at his fourth World Cup – his first coming 12 years ago to the day.
Sergio Aguero gave Argentina the lead in the 19th minute with a well-taken goal on the turn but the two-time world champions conceded just over four minutes later when Alfred Finnbogason finished from close range.
Argentina enjoyed overwhelming possession against the team from the smallest nation to compete in a World Cup finals, but found it difficult fashioning clear chances against a tightly-packed defence.
Croatia and Nigeria play later in the group in Kaliningrad.
Join Daily Trust WhatsApp Community For Quick Access To News and Happenings Around You.