Argentina defeats Paraguay with solitary Otamendi goal

Messi returns, hits woodwork twice in second half

Argentina beat Paraguay 1-0 in a friendly match on Thursday, with Manchester City defender Nicolas Otamendi scoring the only goal in the first half.

Barcelona forward Lionel Messi made his return to the national team after missing the last two matches due to injury, and came close to scoring on two occasions in the second half, but his shots hit the woodwork.

It was a one-sided match for the most part, with Argentina dominating possession and creating the better chances.

This was the 100th match between the two sides, with Argentina winning 51 times, Paraguay winning 15 times, and 33 matches ending in draws.