Xtra Time Web Desk: It required a magic from Lionel Messi as he scored a stunning goal from outside the box as Argentina beat Mexico 2-0 in FIFA World Cup 2022 Group C clash at Lusail Iconic Stadium on Saturday night. Enzo Fernandez too scored a brilliant goal.
The score at half time was 0-0 with Mexico looking more enterprising. It required a brilliance from the Argentine captain as he gave his side the all-important lead in the 64th minute after receiving a pass from Angel Di Maria.
Messi with that strike is now joint-second goal scorer for Argentina in World Cup history with 8 goals alongside Guillermo Stabile and Diego Maradona.
Enzo Fernandez made it 2-0 for Albiceleste in the 88th minute. De Paul took the ball short down the left wing to Messi, before Fernandez is picked out near the top of the area.He then takes a few strides into the box before curling a thunderous shot around Gutierrez and past Ochoa.
The win definitely keeps the two times world champions alive in the tournament after their shock defeat in the first match against Saudi Arabia.
In another Group C fixture, two clean strikes from Piotr Zielinski (39’) and Robert Lewandowski (82’) were enough to earn 3 points for Poland in Group C fixture at Education City Stadium.
While Zielinski opened the account in the first half, Lewandowski wrapped the game with a late strike. Saudi Arabia got their chance to make a comeback. Poland goalie Szczesny went on to deliver stunning double saves to deny Saudi Arabia to score from a penalty. Szczesny first denied Salem Al-Dawsari from the spot and then saved Mohammed Al-Burayk’s rebound.