FIFA 2018: Lionel Messi, Marcos Rojo save Argentina from Early Exit

St Petersburg:

Marcos Rojo’s late winner just four minutes from time kept Lionel Messi and Argentina’s World Cup hopes alive, defeating Nigeria 2-1. Argentina will now face France in the Round of 16.

Earlier, Jorge Sampoli made five changes from their last game against Croatia. Ever Banega who was recalled in the midfield proved his worth inside 15 minutes. His brilliant pass to Messi on top of the Nigerian defence, helped Messi to arrow his right foot into the far corner, scoring his first goal in the tournament.

Argentina headed into halftime with a 1-0 lead but Victor Moses had other plans. His stunning penalty at the 51st minute set Jorge Sampoli and his men for a humiliating early exit. It was only Marcos Rojo’s 86th minute goal that brought Argentina back into the game to secure a 2-1 victory.

Argentina had a ball possession of 65% with a pass accuracy of 83% while their counterparts Nigeria had a ball possession of 35% with a pass accuracy of 71%.

 

Now, In Group D Croatia lead with 9 points followed by Argentina with 3. Croatia will take on Denmark while Argentina will have the challenge of France in the Round of 16.