Stand-in skipper Angel Di Maria scored a stunning free-kick in Argentina's comeback win over Costa Rica.
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- Di Maria scored a stunning free-kick
- Argentina won consecutive matches without Messi
- Beat Costa Rica 3-1
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WHAT HAPPENED?
A Lionel Messi-less Argentina side went down 1-0 against Costa Rica in the first half but Di Maria brought his side back in the game in the 52nd minute when he curled in a terrific free-kick from 25 yards. Alexis Mac Allister and Lautaro Martinez then scored a goal each as La Albiceleste clinched the clash 3-1.
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WATCH THE CLIP
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THE BIGGER PICTURE
The reigning world champions played two friendlies during the March international break without their talismanic skipper as the 36-year-old withdrew his name from the squad after picking up an injury during Inter Miami's CONCACAF Champions Cup clash against Nashville earlier this month. The South American giants scored six goals in their two matches against El Salvador and Costa Rica and conceded just once, showing that they are still a formidable outfit when Messi is unavailable.
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WHAT NEXT FOR ARGENTINA?
Lionel Scaloni's side will now look ahead to the Copa America in June as they look to defend their title, with Messi likely to be the focal point in the team once again. They begin their journey against Canada on June 21.
