For Argentina, the 2018 Fifa World Cup in Russia has so far been a rollercoaster ride. And they face a do-or-die situation against Nigeria Tuesday night in Saint Petersburg. With one point, the Albiceleste are languishing at the bottom of the Group D points table while the Super Eagles are second with three points, thanks to their win over Iceland. A draw or a loss will see Argentina crash out from the tournament in the group stage. Under such circumstances, Argentina captain Lionel Messi, with 64 goals under his belt in 126 international appearances, will be expected to lead from the front. Ahead of the crucial clash, let us take a look at five of Messi’s most memorable goals.
Argentina v USA, Copa America, 2016
The little magician till date has produced many jaw-dropping free kicks but none are remotely close to this. Argentina were leading 1-0 when Messi prepared himself for a free-kick in the 30th minute. Messi went for the top-corner, which was already covered by goalkeeper Brad Guzan. But Messi ensured the USA keeper was stranded with a brilliant strike.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bu7s_qpD2yo
Argentina v Brazil, Friendly, 2010
The friendly game between the arch-rivals in Doha was goalless in the first 90 minutes. However, entering into the second minute of added time, Messi changed all that with a brilliant run before netting into the bottom corner.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uVQYkG-_7_Y
Argentina v Mexico, Copa America, 2007
Messi was only into his third year since his international debut and he had produced a gem – one of his best undoubtedly. It was the semi-final, Argentina were leading 1-0 having scored in the first half. The 20-year old Messi received the ball at the corner of the d-box and took only two touches before chipping over the head of the Mexican custodian.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OsBm2EvRaog&feature=youtu.be
Argentina v Brazil, Friendly, 2010
The forward registered one of his greatest goals in Argentina colours against eternal rival Brazil. The game was evenly poised on 3-3 when Messi received a through pass just inside Brazil’s half. He dashed towards the net before unleashing a mesmerising finish. Two-time World Cup champion Argentina had won the game 4-3 with Messi scoring a magnificent hat-trick.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XuTzXbt1Jqw&feature=youtu.be
Argentina v Ecuador, World Cup Qualifier, 2012
Argentina had won the game 4-0 but it was Messi really who stole the show with a brilliant finish. Messi dashed from the Argentine half, exchanged a perfect one-two with Gonzalo Higuain near the edge of the opponent’s box before firing the ball into the net with a superb first-time finish.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=47zEpits3cw&feature=youtu.be
