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Argentina started their World Cup mission with high hopes and a 36-match unbeaten record, but lost to Saudi Arabia in the first match. The football world was waiting to see how Lionel Messi and his team came back after one of the biggest events in World Cup history.
Argentina did not disappoint them. Argentina defeated Mexico 2-0 in the fight for survival in the World Cup. Lionel Messi and Enzo Fernandes scored for the team.
The 80,000 spectators at the Lusail Iconic Stadium in Qatar wanted a special performance from Messi in such a stressful match. The 7-time Ballon d'Or winner did not disappoint them. Scored a great goal. And gave one to Fernandes.
However, the beginning of the match is quite difficult for Argentina. Nachordbanda Mexico started playing pressing football from the first minute. The Mexicans were not giving space to any Argentinian player. Added with hard tackle.
Mexico made 10 fouls in the first half. However, their ball possession was 32 percent. 68 percent of the ball was at the feet of Messi-Di Maria.
Mexico had a couple of chances. Couldn't use it. In the 45th minute, Alex Begar's direct free-kick was blocked by Argentine goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez. The first half ended in a goalless situation.
Argentina regained their composure after the break. Mexico, who pressed in the first half, could not sustain the pressure in the second half.
As a result, Messi-De Paulra began to gain ground. In the 64th minute came the desired moment for Argentina.
Lionel Messi receives the ball from Angel Di Maria outside the D box. Beat Mexico's goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa from outside the box with an impeccable trademark shot.
After that one goal, Argentina took control of the match. Argentina coach Enzo Fernandez came on as a tactical substitute for Lautaro Martinez.
Due to his speed, he was entering again and again. In the 87th minute, Fernandes dribbled into the box from the left side after receiving the ball from Messi's pass. The 21-year-old youngster fooled the defender and curled the ball into the net.
After that goal, relief returned to the Argentina camp. The rest of the time Mexico could not mount any effective attack.
Messi's team leaves the field with a 2-0 victory and survives in the World Cup.
If they beat Poland in their last match on Wednesday, Argentina will be knocked out as champions from Group C.
Mexico will play against Saudi Arabia on the same day. Even if they win that match, the Mexicans will have to look at other matches.
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