Angel Di Maria has not started a Juventus match for over a month, but made an immediate impact for Argentina with two goals and an assist.
The trequartista has been struggling with a muscular problem at club level and reports suggested he was determined not to rush his recovery lest it interfere with the World Cup plans in Qatar.
He is warming up for the tournament with Argentina’s comfortable friendly victory over the United Arab Emirates this afternoon.
In the starting XI for the first time since October 11 in the Champions League against Maccabi Haifa, El Fideo really turned on the style.
He played only 45 minutes, but contributed two goals – including a spectacular volley – and an assist for Lionel Messi.
Inter striker Joaquin Correa came off the bench after the break and also found the back of the net.
Paulo Dybala of Roma and Fiorentina striker Nico Gonzalez watched on from the stands, as they arrived for international duty still carrying muscular issues.