Lionel Messi revived Argentina’s 2022 World Cup chances with a match winning display in their 2-0 win over Mexico.
La Albiceleste headed into their second game in Group C knowing defeat in Lusail would see them dumped out of the competition at the first hurdle.
A shock loss to Saudi Arabia last week ramped up the pressure on Messi and Argentina, and they struggled for fluidity in the opening 45 minutes, against El Tri.
However, as the clock ticked on after the restart, Messi seized his one real chance of the night, to crash home from the edge of the box on 64 minutes.
MESSIIIIIIIIIIIIII!! 🙌
The Argentina captain comes up with a moment of magic to light up the tight game with this gorgeous finish… 🇦🇷#ITVFootball | #FIFAWorldCup pic.twitter.com/RIHjU46QDC
— ITV Football (@itvfootball) November 26, 2022
MESSI 😱😱😱
Argentina takes the lead vs Mexico! 🇦🇷 pic.twitter.com/iqDUyzzxlx
— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) November 26, 2022
An emotional Messi sprinted straight to the Argentina fans to celebrate as the former Barcelona superstar exploded with relief.
Mexico were unable to react in the closing stages, as Benfica star Enzo Fernandez curled home a superb second goal, to seal the victory.
What. A. Goal!
Enzo Fernandez just scored this absolute worldie to surely secure the win for Argentina!! 🚀#ITVFootball | #FIFAWorldCup pic.twitter.com/RgFWLc8Tyi
— ITV Football (@itvfootball) November 26, 2022
WHAT A MOMENT FOR ENZO FERNANDEZ 👏
The hug between him and Messi is everything ❤️ pic.twitter.com/hnTP1yQleM
— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) November 26, 2022
Argentina now move up to second place in the group, behind Poland, ahead of facing Robert Lewandowski and co in Doha on November 30.
Images via Getty Images
