Lionel Messi left out of Argentina starting XI against Panama

Lionel Messi was not included in Argentina's starting XI for their group stage game against Panama on Friday as he recovers from a back injury.

The five-time Ballon d'Or winner took a knee to his torso in a May 27 friendly against Honduras and was in a race to be fit for his country's opener against defending champion Chile on Monday.

The 28-year-old forward was listed among the substitutes for the match but did not participate as Argentina secured a comfortable 2-1 over the Chileans. Benfica midfielder Nicolas Gaitan took his place in the starting XI.

The Barcelona star participated in full team training on Thursday ahead of their match with Panama, with Albiceleste manager Gerardo Martino verifying Messi was fit to play against Panama afterward.

However Messi was not listed among the starters in Martino's official team sheet released just before Friday's match.

Argentina, who sit on three points in Group D, are looking to win their first major tournament since 1993.