Argentina defeated Mauritania 2-1 in Buenos Aires, with Chelsea’s Enzo Fernández on target for Argentina.
Argentina extended their unbeaten run to 62 from their last 64 matches with a 2-1 victory over Mauritania. However, despite the win, the reigning world champions delivered an unconvincing performance that raised questions ahead of their upcoming fixtures.
𝐅𝐮𝐥𝐥-𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐞 at La Bombonera!
🇦🇷 Argentina 2 🆚 1 Mauritania 🇲🇷
⚽ E. Fernández & N. Paz pic.twitter.com/yK3KVXnS1I
— Selección Argentina in English (@AFASeleccionEN) March 28, 2026
The hosts started brightly and nearly took the lead inside four minutes when Julián Álvarez forced a strong save from goalkeeper Babacar Diop with a curling free-kick.
Argentina eventually broke the deadlock after 17 minutes when Nahuel Molina delivered a precise cross that found Enzo Fernández unmarked in the box, allowing him to sweep home a composed first-time finish.
The advantage doubled shortly after the half-hour mark as Nico Paz continued his impressive form. The youngster curled a stunning free-kick beyond Diop from outside the area, giving Lionel Scaloni’s side a comfortable cushion before the break.
Mauritania did show glimpses of threat late in the first half, with Oumar Ngom testing Emiliano Martínez in stoppage time. The Argentina goalkeeper handled the effort comfortably, ensuring his side went into the interval with full control of the contest.
Scaloni reshuffled his lineup at half-time, introducing several substitutes including Rodrigo De Paul, Franco Mastantuono and Lionel Messi. Despite the star-studded changes, Mauritania created the first chance of the second half when Djeidi Gassama miscued from close range.
The visitors continued to threaten sporadically, with Aboubakary Koita forcing Martínez into a fingertip save midway through the half. Surprisingly, Argentina struggled to impose themselves after the interval and failed to register a single shot on target during the second 45 minutes.
Mauritania were eventually rewarded deep into stoppage time when Jordan Lefort pulled a goal back. Argentina will next face Zambia next as they continue preparations to defend their FIFA World Cup crown, while the Lions of Chinguetti leave Buenos Aires encouraged after a respectable showing against one of the world’s top-ranked nations.
