Lionel Messi and Enzo Fernandez’s goals earned Argentina A 2-0 win over Mexico in a lively atmosphere at Lusail Stadium on Saturday and the start of the South American team’s World Cup campaign.
With a 2-1 lead by Saudi Arabia in their opening Group C match, Argentina knew defeat would knock them out of the tournament, but they got off to a bad start, struggling to cope with of Mexico press high when Messi is denied the time and space to operate.
The Argentina captain was anonymous in the first half, and his only notable contribution was a header that went over the bar as his team failed to create a decent chance.
But being fouled by Angel Di Maria just outside the Mexican penalty area in the 64th minute, Messi sent a low shot through the crowd of defenders into the top corner. Fernandez followed that up in the 87th minute with a superb cut to seal the victory.
The victory put Argentina in second place with 3 points, 1 point behind the top team. Polandwho they will play in their final group match.
