UPDATE 1-Soccer-Messi inspires Argentina to 4-3 win over Algeria

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BARCELONA, June 5 (Reuters) - Lionel Messi scored twice to inspire Argentina to put a dismal first half behind them and beat Algeria 4-3 in a friendly international on Tuesday.

Playing on his club Barcelona's Nou Camp turf, Messi converted a penalty and Argentina's decisive fourth goal to help Alfio Basile's side come back from 2-1 down at halftime.

Mistakes at three Algerian set pieces, particularly from World Cup goalkeeper Roberto Abbondanzieri, allowed the African side three goals to keep the result in the balance throughout.

Basile, who injected the side with purpose by sending on midfielders Javier Mascherano and Lucho Gonzalez for the second half, will be concerned about defensive frailties with the Copa America looming.

Carlos Tevez put Argentina ahead in the opening minute with a penalty after fellow striker Diego Milito was brought down from behind, but any ideas Argentina had of an easy match were soon dispelled.

Algeria equalised after nine minutes when Anthar Yahia headed home a corner past the static Abbondanzieri and took the lead three minutes before the interval with Majid Bougherra's free kick.

Argentina came out all guns blazing for the second half and within 11 minutes of the restart were 3-2 up.

Messi, who hit the post in the 51st minute with a shot from outside the area, converted a 54th-minute penalty after being brought down by defender Mehdi Meniri.