Just a few days ago, it seemed as though Argentina’s World Cup dreams could be over after a 3-0 drubbing at the hands of Croatia and a poor draw against Iceland. Heading into the final match against a buoyant Nigeria team, with only a point looked bleak. It seemed like mission impossible, particularly as Croatia were likely to rest many of their players in their match against Iceland.
Messi’s world class talent prevailed
When Messi is involved, the impossible becomes possible and he showed a few seconds of world class ability that proved that the World Cup would be a much duller tournament without him. The way he controlled the ball before he executed a fine shot into the Nigeria net will be talked about for a very long time. It is the magical move that kids will be trying to replicate in the streets in Messi’s home city of Rosario to the streets of Barcelona and everywhere in between.
Messi has a big feat ahead of him if he is to contest the current Golden Boot leaders, with only one goal to his name so far but if anyone can do it, he is probably the man. Ronaldo must have been rubbing his hands together after the Argentina vs. Croatia game, making some space for the latest trophy in his cabinet. Messi turned up when it mattered most, just like the biggest stars of all time have a tendency to do.
Heartbreak for Nigeria
The Super Eagles pulled off a great win against Iceland and needed just a draw to see them through, as Croatia took the lead over Iceland in the other game. Nigeria looked like they would get the result they needed, despite falling behind to a piece of Messi magic after 14 minutes. They were awarded a penalty early in the second half, which Chelsea’s Victor Moses coolly dispatched.
They even had a clear chance to go ahead but even though the chance passed, they looked like they could hold on for the draw that would see them into the last 16. With 86 minutes played, unlikely hero Marcus Rojo popped up in the box to rifle a shot home, sending the Argentina fans into delirium.
Maradona making headlines again
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IdNmUmqLxzQ
It was party time for the Argentinians and their icon Maradona was pictured celebrating in a very hyper manner, later needing medical treatment. His behaviour at the tournament has drawn a lot of criticism while it should be the heroes on the pitch that make the headlines.