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SBI World Cup Man of the Match: Lionel Messi

LionelMessiArgentina1-NigeriaWorldCup2014 (Getty)

By RYAN TOLMICH

Prior to Argentina’s final group stage clash with Nigeria, manager Alejandro Sabella cited his disappointment with his side’s dependence on superstar Lionel Messi. However, if Messi’s performance Wednesday is anything to go by, maybe depending on him isn’t such a bad thing.

It took just three minutes for the Argentine magician to kick-start his country’s attack, as the 27-year-old bagged a first-half brace in Argentina’s 3-2 victory over Nigeria. Messi picked up his second goal just before the halftime whistle by way of a spectacular left-footed free kick that left Nigeria goalkeeper Vincent Enyeama shell-shocked.

Messi was substituted in the 63rd minute, but his pair of first-half finishes were enough to earn SBI World Cup Man of the Match. Messi beat out Nigerian midfielder Ahmed Musa and Argentine maestro Angel di Maria for the honors.

What did you think of Messi’s performance? Who stood out to you in Argentina’s 3-2 victory over Nigeria?

Share your thoughts below.

Comments

  1. And on that first goal today, the ball sat up so nice for him to hit the sweet spot. And with all those players in the way, he still knew exactly where to hit. When i grow up, i want to be just like Messi.

    Reply

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