Argentina beat Nigeria 3-1 with a dazzling Messi

Dhaka, Bangladesh, September 6, 2011
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Argentina faced Nigeria in the Alejandro Sabella’s second game as coach of national team.

First Half

Argentina reached the penalty area of the rival in the opening minutes, but could not score. Nevertheless, Sabella’s team dominated the game but Nigeria woke up at times and put in risk Romero’s net.

At 18 minutes Lionel Messi received a strong blow from a Nigerian player and finished with a cut on his face.

At 24, Argentina opened the scoring with a goal from Gonzalo Higuain after a pass by “The Flea” (Messi).

At 26, Di Maria scored after an incredible play by Messi that started from the midfield field passing through at least three defenders.

Second Half

Nigeria surprised Argentina defense at one minute of play, with a goal by Obasi.

At 7 minutes Nigeria again attacked Argentina penetrating the defense that in this second half is showing vulnerability.

Argentina is going through its worst moment in the second half, could not control the game and had serious cracks in his defense. Nigeria continued to search but failed to achieve.

Within 20 minutes Argentina woke up with a goal by Higuain, who strike strongly and the goalkeeper gave a rebound; then a defensive player put the ball on the net.

Teams

Argentina: Sergio Romero; Nicolás Burdisso, Martín Demichelis and Nicolás Otamendi; Pablo Zabaleta, Javier Mascherano and Marcos Rojo; Sosa and Angel Di María; Lionel Messi and Gonzalo Higuaín. Coach: Alejandro Sabella.

Nigeria: Dele Ayenugba; Chibuzor Okonkwo, Uwa Elderson, Joseph Yobo and Efe Ambrose; Joel Obi, Mike Obi and Ahmed Musa; Víctor Obinna, Víctor Anichebe and Ikechukwu Uche. Coach: Siasia.

Stadium: Bangabandhu, Dhaka.