FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — South Florida fans enjoyed a chance to see a first-ever international matchup between Argentina and Puerto Rico at Chase Stadium on Tuesday.

The friendly, originally scheduled for Chicago, was moved to Fort Lauderdale, giving local fans an unprecedented opportunity to watch top soccer talent in person.

Argentina, reigning FIFA World Cup and back-to-back Copa America champions, featured superstar Lionel Messi, who played 90 minutes in the 6-0 victory.

He recently returned from international duty and did not play in Argentina’s match against Venezuela in Miami last week, allowing him to suit up for Inter Miami in the team’s penultimate regular-season game, where he scored twice.

Argentinian coach Lionel Scaloni said before the match that Messi would play only if he is fit, prioritizing his health over the match.

For Puerto Rico, the game was a chance for young players to gain experience against a star-studded opponent. Fans who quickly purchased tickets were expecting a historic night at Chase Stadium.

Argentina defeats Puerto Rico at Chase Stadium in historic matchup

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