Argentina serve notice in the first 60 seconds when forwards Lionel Messi and Carlos Tevez combined in an attack that nearly resulted in a very early goal. Three minutes later, Messi dribbled through 4 defenders and sent a cross in to Tevez, who tapped it wide of goal. Finally, in the 6th, Gabriel Heinze sprinted into the box unmarked on a corner kick and headed the ball into the upper corner for Argentina’s first goal.
It turned out to be the only goal of the match, despite plenty of lively attacking play on both ends of the pitch. Argentina certainly seemed the more capable side, but Nigeria played competently if not as well organized. Nigeria’s best threats came from quick counterattacks and their forward’s lightning fast changes of direction with the ball. They could still be a force in this group. I’m looking forward to the Nigeria v South Korea match.
My prediction was: Argentina. Final result: Argentina 1-0.
