Argentina beat Nigeria 2-1 as a late winner from Marcos Rojo ensured them a round-of-16 spot.
It was a dramatic night for football as Marcos Rojo’s 86th minute volley embarked a flurry of celebrations among the Argentine supporters all over the world. The South America side, after two disappointing games against Iceland and Croatia, came back strongly to defeat Nigeria 2-1, and secured a place in the next round.
Lionel Messi was at the centre of it all, who scored his first goal in this year’s World Cup. The goal, too, was one for the collectors. Messi controlled a terrific long ball by Ever Banega on his left foot, to set the shot up for his weaker foot. However, Messi still beat the keeper far easily to give Argentina the lead. In the half-time, the Argentina captain fulfilled his duty quite efficiently, as he delivered an inspirational team-talk in the team huddle.
Nigeria equalised in the second half through a penalty from Victor Moses, however they failed to convert the few chances they could create. Naturally, the misses came back to haunt them when Marcos Rojo timed his volley to absolute perfection in the 86th minute of the game to seal the match for Argentina.
Messi was awarded the man of the match for his brilliant goal and display of leadership. However, he was also the centre of discussion on social media for a particular incident which took place late in the second half.
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It is being speculated, and later reported by journalists that Argentina’s manager Jorge Sampaoli asked Messi if it’s time to bring on Sergio Aguero.
Here is the video. –
