Argentina made a terrific comeback against Nigeria as Rojo scored the winner in the final minutes of the game.
Argentina finally rose in their third and final group game of this year’s World Cup. The clocks were ticking down on their World Cup campaign, and it wasn’t until an 86th minute volley from Marcos Rojo that the nation breathed a sigh of relief. Argentina have qualified for the next round of the World Cup, and will now face Group C winners, France. They can also set up a potential quarterfinal match against Portugal, if they Europeans beat Uruguay.
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However, during the half time against Nigeria, with the score at 1-0 in the favour of Argentina, Messi was seen delivering a team talk in a hurdle. While many posted pictures and videos of Messi efficiently performing his duties as the captain of the side, there were speculations as to what he said to his teammates.
Marcos Rojo has finally spoken about Messi’s inspirational team-talk.
“Messi came up to us and told us to calm down and not be stressed,” said the Manchester United defender. “We felt nervous and that message helped us a lot and gave me personally a huge confidence boost,” added Rojo.
“Messi is our captain and he’s the best captain in the world, it was amazing to score that goal. Messi told everyone that it was either life or death. It could’ve gone badly. We could’ve conceded but Leo was stubborn.”
“He told me to run forward. Even [Javier] Mascherano. He told everyone to attack no matter what. He truly read the game and risks. He’s a leader. The best.”
Earlier, Messi gave Argentina the lead with a brilliant goal from his weaker foot, as he controlled a terrific long-ball from Ever Banega. Victor Moses equalised through a penalty in the second half, but the African side couldn’t convert their chances, even when they came close on some occasions.
