Argentinian soccer legend Lionel Messi was not included in the starting lineup for the international friendly against Honduras in College Station, Tx., the penultimate game before the South American powerhouse opens World Cup play on June 16; however, he did dress and was included in the matchday roster as an available substitute.
25-year-old Thiago Almada assumed Messi’s usual position on the right wing, while center back Nicolás Otamendi donned the captain’s armband.