Real Madrid’s Franco Mastantuono needed just one hour on the pitch to win over Lionel Messi, coach Lionel Scaloni, and the home crowd in Argentina’s 1-0 World Cup qualifying win against Venezuela.
Mastantuono proved to be the perfect partner for Messi, linking up seamlessly multiple times and showing remarkable chemistry. Starting the match against Venezuela, the young attacker made an immediate impact during the hour he played. Scaloni praised his performance while noting that Mastantuono still has room to grow.
Franco Mastantuono: a superstar in the making
There’s little doubt the Real Madrid player is poised to become a leader in the Argentina locker room once Messi’s international career winds down. Despite his youth, Mastantuono shone on the right wing, delivering a series of dazzling plays that won over the Argentine fans at River Plate’s iconic stadium.
Every touch was met with cheers, and he looked completely at ease playing alongside Messi. He combined effortlessly with the captain, executing quick give-and-go passes and threading key balls through the defense. He even tested the goalkeeper with a few shots, though the goal ultimately eluded him. At times, his play recalled the brilliance of Angel Di María.
“Incredible” to play with Messi
“It was incredible to play with him. It was a dream come true. Doing it at River Plate’s stadium made it even more amazing,” Mastantuono said of Messi.
Mastantuono also showed commitment on defense, pressing opponents and recovering the ball multiple times. In one memorable sequence, he chased a rival over 65 yards to win back possession. Though substituted for Nico González before the final whistle, he left the pitch with plenty of praise and confidence.
Argentina has one final qualifier remaining against Ecuador, with both teams already qualified. Mastantuono could well feature in the starting lineup again, especially after the announcement that Messi will not travel with the national team.