Image Credits: Imago Images
Liverpool midfielder Alexis Mac Allister lasted for 85 minutes in Argentina’s 2-0 friendly win over Angola on Friday.
More than 50,000 spectators packed the 11 November Stadium, named after Angola’s independence day, and Messi received a standing ovation when he was substituted in the final minutes.
The match also highlighted Messi’s connection with Martínez.
The former Barcelona forward registered his ninth career assist for the Inter Milan striker, tying his record for most assists to a single player for Argentina, alongside Gonzalo Higuain and Sergio Aguero.
Argentina sealed the victory in the 82nd minute, with Martínez cleverly setting up Messi in the box.
The forward calmly finished to the far side of the net with a precise left-footed strike.
Alexis Mac Allister shared the field with his brother Kevin, a center-back making his senior international debut.
Argentine outlet TYC Sports gave Mac Allister a 6/10 and wrote: “Somewhat absent in the first half, he distributed the ball well later on when Argentina had possession.
“A nice long ball into the box to Messi, who was quickly closed down.”
Ole rated Mac Allister a 6.5/10 and assessed: “He played as a well-positioned defensive midfielder.
“While not particularly mobile, he distributed the ball effectively and was always an option when playing out from the back and when in possession.
“He made very few misplaced passes and was substituted late in the game.”
Finally, Argentine outlet Clarin gave Mac Allister a 5/10 and said: “He positioned himself as a central midfielder and from there was responsible for distribution.
“In the opening minutes, as the lone holding midfielder, he struggled with the Angolans’ passing game, but he adjusted and finished the match well.
“However, he did appear much more restricted than when playing as an attacking midfielder.”
Mac Allister has had a slow start to the season for Liverpool, coming off the back of a summer disrupted by injury.
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