NewDelhi: After scoring winners in both of Argentina’s previous Group clashes, skipper Lionel Messi continued his fine form against Nigeria at Estadio Beira Rio in Porto Alegre on Wednesday, with the Barcelona superstar scoring a brace to effectively put a near permanent closure on murmurs regarding whether he reserves his best for the club, and in the process, guided Argentina to a 3-2 win over Nigeria.
Messi opened the scoring in just the third minute of play through a thunderous shot after Angel di Maria’s shot had hit the post. Nigeria drew level the very next minute through Ahmed Musa.
Just when it appeared that both teams would go into the interval tied 1-1, Messi scored on a free kick. As has been his trademark throughout his illustrious career, the kick curled beautifully mid-air to land in the goalpost with mind boggling precision, much to the dismay of keeper Enyeama.
Also Read: FIFA WC 2014: Will this be Lionel Messi’s World Cup?
The first half extra time masterclass meant Argentina started second half on a high, but were duly grounded by an irrepressible Musa just two minutes after half time. However, Marcos Roja slotted home the winner three minutes later to ensure Argentina top Group F.
Nigeria too have qualified in final 16, which means its curtains for Bosnia-Herzegovina and Iran.
The day, however, belonged to Messi, who joined Diego Maradona as the only Argentinean to score four successive World cup goals. Maradona achieved the feat in 1986, when his exploits in quarter finals and semi final earned him four goals. Messi, on his part, scored a goal each against Bosnia- Herzegovina and Iran, before registering a brace against Nigeria.
By virtue of their two goals, Nigeria became the first African side ever to score twice against Argentina in a World cup.
No comments:
Post a Comment