Argentina draws 1-1 with Iceland after Messi fails to convert penalty
In a Group D match at Otkritie Arena pitting a side playing its first-ever World Cup match against a two-time champion, Argentina opened the scoring with a powerful, left-footed blast by Manchester City striker Sergio Aguero in the 19th minute.
Iceland, which despite its small population is now a known and respected rival after reaching the Euro 2016 quarter-finals, got the equalizer four minutes later when forward Alfred Finnbogason finished from close range.
Right before the goal was scored, Argentine goalkeeper Willy Caballero had failed to clear a low shot by Gylfi Sigurdsson.
Although the Albiceleste controlled the game and held possession for a total of 78 minutes, Icelandic goalkeeper Hannes Halldorsson was the difference.
The veteran 34-year-old managed to stop nearly everything the Argentines sent his way, most importantly denying an attempt by Messi from the 12-yard mark in the 62nd minute.
That opportunity came after Maximiliano Meza was brought down by Hordur Magnusson after a cross had been sent into the area.
Messi took the penalty and opted to shoot toward the left side of the goal, but Halldorsson dove to his right and palmed it away to preserve the draw.
The missed opportunity is a frustrating start to this year's World Cup for the FC Barcelona superstar, who has come agonizingly close to leading Argentina to championships on the international stage.
Argentina barely lost 1-0 to Germany in the 2014 World Cup final and also fell short in penalty shootouts in the 2015 and 2016 Copa America championship matches, losing both times to Chile.