Wednesday 25 June 2014

Messi goals deliver Argentina win






Avdija Vrsajevic of Bosnia-Herzegovina shoots and scores his team's third goal past goalkeeper Alireza Haghighi of Iran during a match in Salvador, Brazil, on Wednesday, June 25. Bosnia-Herzegovina won 3-1. Click through the gallery to see all the goals scored so far in the World Cup, which is being held in 12 cities across Brazil. Avdija Vrsajevic of Bosnia-Herzegovina shoots and scores his team's third goal past goalkeeper Alireza Haghighi of Iran during a match in Salvador, Brazil, on Wednesday, June 25. Bosnia-Herzegovina won 3-1. Click through the gallery to see all the goals scored so far in the World Cup, which is being held in 12 cities across Brazil.

Iran forward Reza Ghoochannejhad, right, kicks to score his team's first goal past Bosnia-Herzegovina goalkeeper Asmir Begovic as Bosnia-Herzegovina defender Toni Sunjic runs during the match. Iran forward Reza Ghoochannejhad, right, kicks to score his team's first goal past Bosnia-Herzegovina goalkeeper Asmir Begovic as Bosnia-Herzegovina defender Toni Sunjic runs during the match.

Bosnia-Herzegovina forward Edin Dzeko, front right, celebrates with teammates after Bosnia-Herzegovina midfielder Miralem Pjanic (not seen) scored his team's second goal. Haghighi, picks up the ball Bosnia-Herzegovina forward Edin Dzeko, front right, celebrates with teammates after Bosnia-Herzegovina midfielder Miralem Pjanic (not seen) scored his team's second goal. Haghighi, picks up the ball

Argentina defender Marcos Rojo celebrates his team's third goal against Nigeria in Porto Alegre, Brazil, on June 25. Argentina won 3-2.Argentina defender Marcos Rojo celebrates his team's third goal against Nigeria in Porto Alegre, Brazil, on June 25. Argentina won 3-2.

Nigeria forward Ahmed Musa celebrates scoring his team's second goal against Argentina. Nigeria forward Ahmed Musa celebrates scoring his team's second goal against Argentina.

Argentina forward Lionel Messi scores his team's second goal against Nigeria. Argentina forward Lionel Messi scores his team's second goal against Nigeria.

Bosnia-Herzegovina forward Edin Dzeko, left, celebrates scoring his team's first goal against Iran.Bosnia-Herzegovina forward Edin Dzeko, left, celebrates scoring his team's first goal against Iran.

Musa, right, celebrates his goal with Nigeria defender Joseph Yobo during a match against Argentina.Musa, right, celebrates his goal with Nigeria defender Joseph Yobo during a match against Argentina.

Messi, left, celebrates with his teammate Angel Di Maria, after scoring his team's first goal against Nigeria.Messi, left, celebrates with his teammate Angel Di Maria, after scoring his team's first goal against Nigeria.

Giorgos Samaras of Greece celebrates scoring his team's second goal on a penalty kick against the Ivory Coast on Tuesday, June 24, in Fortaleza, Brazil. Greece won 2-1.Giorgos Samaras of Greece celebrates scoring his team's second goal on a penalty kick against the Ivory Coast on Tuesday, June 24, in Fortaleza, Brazil. Greece won 2-1.

James Rodriguez of Colombia shoots and scores his team's fourth goal against Japan on June 24 in Cuiaba, Brazil. Colombia won 4-1.James Rodriguez of Colombia shoots and scores his team's fourth goal against Japan on June 24 in Cuiaba, Brazil. Colombia won 4-1.

Jackson Martinez of Colombia, right, celebrates with his teammate Rodriguez after scoring his team's third goal against Japan.Jackson Martinez of Colombia, right, celebrates with his teammate Rodriguez after scoring his team's third goal against Japan.

Ivory Coast's Wilfried Bony, second from left, celebrates with teammates after scoring a goal against Greece.Ivory Coast's Wilfried Bony, second from left, celebrates with teammates after scoring a goal against Greece.

Jackson Martinez of Colombia shoots and scores his team's second goal against Japan.Jackson Martinez of Colombia shoots and scores his team's second goal against Japan.

Colombia's goalkeeper David Ospina lies on the ground after Japan's Shinji Okazaki (not pictured) scored his team's first goal.Colombia's goalkeeper David Ospina lies on the ground after Japan's Shinji Okazaki (not pictured) scored his team's first goal.

Andreas Samaris of Greece scores against the Ivory Coast.Andreas Samaris of Greece scores against the Ivory Coast.

Colombia's Juan Guillermo Cuadrado scores a penalty during the match against Japan.Colombia's Juan Guillermo Cuadrado scores a penalty during the match against Japan.

Uruguay's Diego Godin, second right, scores against Italy on June 24 in Natal, Brazil. Uruguay won 1-0.Uruguay's Diego Godin, second right, scores against Italy on June 24 in Natal, Brazil. Uruguay won 1-0.

Goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa of Mexico fails to stop Croatian midfielder Ivan Perisic from scoring on Monday, June 23, in Recife, Brazil. Mexico won 3-1. Goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa of Mexico fails to stop Croatian midfielder Ivan Perisic from scoring on Monday, June 23, in Recife, Brazil. Mexico won 3-1.

Fernandinho of Brazil, right, celebrates with his teammate Ramires after scoring his team's fourth and final goal against Cameroon on June 23 in Brasilia. Brazil won 4-1.Fernandinho of Brazil, right, celebrates with his teammate Ramires after scoring his team's fourth and final goal against Cameroon on June 23 in Brasilia. Brazil won 4-1.

Mexico's Javier Hernandez celebrates after scoring his team's third goal against Croatia.Mexico's Javier Hernandez celebrates after scoring his team's third goal against Croatia.

Andres Guardado of Mexico, center, celebrates after scoring the second goal against Croatia.Andres Guardado of Mexico, center, celebrates after scoring the second goal against Croatia.

Mexico's Rafael Marquez, center, heads the ball to score his team's first goal against Croatia.Mexico's Rafael Marquez, center, heads the ball to score his team's first goal against Croatia.

Fred of Brazil scores his team's third goal on a header past Charles Itandje of Cameroon.Fred of Brazil scores his team's third goal on a header past Charles Itandje of Cameroon.

Brazil forward Neymar, left, celebrates with his teammate Dani Alves after scoring Brazil's second goal against Cameroon.Brazil forward Neymar, left, celebrates with his teammate Dani Alves after scoring Brazil's second goal against Cameroon.

Cameroon midfielder Joel Matip, right, celebrates with Allan Nyom and Vincent Aboubakar after scoring a goal against Brazil.Cameroon midfielder Joel Matip, right, celebrates with Allan Nyom and Vincent Aboubakar after scoring a goal against Brazil.

Brazil forward Neymar, right, scores Brazil's first goal past Cameroon goalkeeper Charles Itandje.Brazil forward Neymar, right, scores Brazil's first goal past Cameroon goalkeeper Charles Itandje.

Memphis Depay of the Netherlands scores his team's second goal past Chile's goalkeeper Claudio Bravo in Sao Paulo on June 23. Netherlands won 2-0.Memphis Depay of the Netherlands scores his team's second goal past Chile's goalkeeper Claudio Bravo in Sao Paulo on June 23. Netherlands won 2-0.

Juan Mata scores the third goal for Spain past Mathew Ryan of Australia at Arena da Baixada in Curitiba, Brazil, on June 23. Spain defeated Australia 3-0, but neither team will advance to the next round.Juan Mata scores the third goal for Spain past Mathew Ryan of Australia at Arena da Baixada in Curitiba, Brazil, on June 23. Spain defeated Australia 3-0, but neither team will advance to the next round.

Netherlands midfielder Leroy Fer celebrates scoring the team's first goal against Chile.Netherlands midfielder Leroy Fer celebrates scoring the team's first goal against Chile.

Spain's Fernando Torres scores his team's second goal past Australian Mathew Ryan.Spain's Fernando Torres scores his team's second goal past Australian Mathew Ryan.

David Villa of Spain scores his team's first goal past Mathew Ryan of Australia.David Villa of Spain scores his team's first goal past Mathew Ryan of Australia.

Portugal forward Silvestre Varela gets up after scoring his team's dramatic second goal in the last moments against the United States at Arena Amazonia in Manaus, Brazil, on Sunday, June 22. The final result was a 2-2 draw.Portugal forward Silvestre Varela gets up after scoring his team's dramatic second goal in the last moments against the United States at Arena Amazonia in Manaus, Brazil, on Sunday, June 22. The final result was a 2-2 draw.

Clint Dempsey, left, of the United States celebrates scoring his team's second and go-ahead goal against Portugal.Clint Dempsey, left, of the United States celebrates scoring his team's second and go-ahead goal against Portugal.

Jermaine Jones of the United States celebrates scoring his team's first goal in the second half against Portugal.Jermaine Jones of the United States celebrates scoring his team's first goal in the second half against Portugal.

Portugal's Nani, center, celebrates scoring a goal against the United States. He scored on a cross about 6 yards out from the goal.Portugal's Nani, center, celebrates scoring a goal against the United States. He scored on a cross about 6 yards out from the goal.

South Korean forward Koo Ja-cheol scores his team's second goal against Algeria at the Beira-Rio Stadium in Porto Alegre, Brazil, on June 22. Algeria won 4-2.South Korean forward Koo Ja-cheol scores his team's second goal against Algeria at the Beira-Rio Stadium in Porto Alegre, Brazil, on June 22. Algeria won 4-2.

Yacine Brahimi, second left, scores Algeria's fourth goal against South Korea.Yacine Brahimi, second left, scores Algeria's fourth goal against South Korea.

Son Heung-min of South Korea scores his team's first goal past Madjid Bougherra of Algeria.Son Heung-min of South Korea scores his team's first goal past Madjid Bougherra of Algeria.

Algerian forward Abdelmoumene Djabou celebrates scoring his team's third goal against South Korea.Algerian forward Abdelmoumene Djabou celebrates scoring his team's third goal against South Korea.

Algeria's Rafik Halliche scores the second goal against South Korea on a header.Algeria's Rafik Halliche scores the second goal against South Korea on a header.

Islam Slimani of Algeria scores the first goal against South Korea.Islam Slimani of Algeria scores the first goal against South Korea.

Belgium's forward Divock Origi, center, celebrates after scoring against Russia in Rio de Janeiro on June 22. Belgium won 1-0.Belgium's forward Divock Origi, center, celebrates after scoring against Russia in Rio de Janeiro on June 22. Belgium won 1-0.

Nigeria forward Peter Odemwingie, right, shoots past Bosnia-Herzegovina goalkeeper Asmir Begovic, left, on Saturday, June 21, in Cuiaba, Brazil. Nigeria won 1-0.Nigeria forward Peter Odemwingie, right, shoots past Bosnia-Herzegovina goalkeeper Asmir Begovic, left, on Saturday, June 21, in Cuiaba, Brazil. Nigeria won 1-0.

Germany substitute Miroslav Klose does a flip to celebrate after equaling the World Cup record of 15 goals overall, giving his team a 2-2 draw with Ghana on June 21 in Fortaleza, Brazil.Germany substitute Miroslav Klose does a flip to celebrate after equaling the World Cup record of 15 goals overall, giving his team a 2-2 draw with Ghana on June 21 in Fortaleza, Brazil.

Asamoah Gyan of Ghana puts his team 2-1 head against Germany.Asamoah Gyan of Ghana puts his team 2-1 head against Germany.

 Andre Ayew scores Ghana's equalizer with a header past Germany goalkeeper Manuel Neuer. Andre Ayew scores Ghana's equalizer with a header past Germany goalkeeper Manuel Neuer.

Germany midfielder Mario Gotze, right, scores the team's first goal against Ghana.Germany midfielder Mario Gotze, right, scores the team's first goal against Ghana.

Argentina forward and captain Lionel Messi celebrates after scoring the only goal in Argentina's World Cup victory over Iran on June 21 in Belo Horizonte, Brazil.Argentina forward and captain Lionel Messi celebrates after scoring the only goal in Argentina's World Cup victory over Iran on June 21 in Belo Horizonte, Brazil.

Enner Valencia of Ecuador scores his team's second goal on a header against Jerry Bengtson and Juan Carlos Garcia of Honduras on Friday, June 20, in Curitiba, Brazil. The goal brought the score to 2-1, Ecuador. Enner Valencia of Ecuador scores his team's second goal on a header against Jerry Bengtson and Juan Carlos Garcia of Honduras on Friday, June 20, in Curitiba, Brazil. The goal brought the score to 2-1, Ecuador.

Carlo Costly of Honduras celebrates scoring his team's first goal, tying the score 1-1.Carlo Costly of Honduras celebrates scoring his team's first goal, tying the score 1-1.

 Enner Valencia of Ecuador scores the first goal of the game past Noel Valladares of Honduras. Enner Valencia of Ecuador scores the first goal of the game past Noel Valladares of Honduras.

Switzerland midfielder Granit Xhaka scores on a volley in the second half against France on June 20. But France were well ahead by that point, winning 5-2 in Salvador, Brazil.Switzerland midfielder Granit Xhaka scores on a volley in the second half against France on June 20. But France were well ahead by that point, winning 5-2 in Salvador, Brazil.

French goalkeeper Hugo Lloris can't get to a free kick from Switzerland's Blerim Dzemaili in the second half. France led 5-0 to that point.French goalkeeper Hugo Lloris can't get to a free kick from Switzerland's Blerim Dzemaili in the second half. France led 5-0 to that point.

French midfielder Moussa Sissoko celebrates scoring his team's fifth goal.French midfielder Moussa Sissoko celebrates scoring his team's fifth goal.

Karim Benzema slips the ball past Swiss goalkeeper Diego Benaglio for France's fourth goal. It was Benzema's third goal of the tournament.Karim Benzema slips the ball past Swiss goalkeeper Diego Benaglio for France's fourth goal. It was Benzema's third goal of the tournament.

France's Mathieu Valbuena runs past Benaglio after giving his team a 3-0 lead in the first half.France's Mathieu Valbuena runs past Benaglio after giving his team a 3-0 lead in the first half.

Blaise Matuidi celebrates his first-half goal, which gave France a 2-0 lead.Blaise Matuidi celebrates his first-half goal, which gave France a 2-0 lead.

Benaglio kneels near the net after French forward Olivier Giroud, far right, headed in a goal to open the scoring.Benaglio kneels near the net after French forward Olivier Giroud, far right, headed in a goal to open the scoring.

Costa Rican forward Bryan Ruiz heads the ball past Italian goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon during the first half of a World Cup match Friday, June 20, in Recife, Brazil. Costa Rica held on to win 1-0 and clinch a spot in the next round of the tournament.Costa Rican forward Bryan Ruiz heads the ball past Italian goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon during the first half of a World Cup match Friday, June 20, in Recife, Brazil. Costa Rica held on to win 1-0 and clinch a spot in the next round of the tournament.

Uruguayan forward Luis Suarez drills a shot to score a late second-half goal and defeat England 2-1 in a World Cup match Thursday, June 19, in Sao Paulo, Brazil. Suarez had both of Uruguay's goals. Uruguayan forward Luis Suarez drills a shot to score a late second-half goal and defeat England 2-1 in a World Cup match Thursday, June 19, in Sao Paulo, Brazil. Suarez had both of Uruguay's goals.

England forward Wayne Rooney taps the ball past Uruguay goalkeeper Fernando Muslera to tie the match at 1-1. It was Rooney's first World Cup goal in his career.England forward Wayne Rooney taps the ball past Uruguay goalkeeper Fernando Muslera to tie the match at 1-1. It was Rooney's first World Cup goal in his career.

Suarez celebrates after steering a header past English goalkeeper Joe Hart in the first half.Suarez celebrates after steering a header past English goalkeeper Joe Hart in the first half.

Colombian goalkeeper David Ospina fails to stop a second-half shot by Ivory Coast forward Gervinho during a World Cup match Thursday, June 19, in Brasilia, Brazil. Colombia won the match 2-1. Colombian goalkeeper David Ospina fails to stop a second-half shot by Ivory Coast forward Gervinho during a World Cup match Thursday, June 19, in Brasilia, Brazil. Colombia won the match 2-1.

Colombian forward Juan Fernando Quintero celebrates after his goal gave his team a 2-0 lead.Colombian forward Juan Fernando Quintero celebrates after his goal gave his team a 2-0 lead.

Colombia players dance after the first goal of the game, which was scored by James Rodriguez (No. 10) on a header.Colombia players dance after the first goal of the game, which was scored by James Rodriguez (No. 10) on a header.

Mario Mandzukic of Croatia scores his second goal past Charles Itandje of Cameroon during a World Cup match Wednesday, June 18, in Manaus, Brazil. Croatia won 4-0, eliminating Cameroon from World Cup contention. Mario Mandzukic of Croatia scores his second goal past Charles Itandje of Cameroon during a World Cup match Wednesday, June 18, in Manaus, Brazil. Croatia won 4-0, eliminating Cameroon from World Cup contention.

Mandzukic, center, celebrates scoring Croatia's third goal with his teammates Dejan Lovren, left, and Vedran Corluka.Mandzukic, center, celebrates scoring Croatia's third goal with his teammates Dejan Lovren, left, and Vedran Corluka.

Croatian midfielder Ivan Perisic shoots past Itandje.Croatian midfielder Ivan Perisic shoots past Itandje.

Croatian forward Ivica Olic, center, celebrates after scoring against the team's opening goal against Cameroon.Croatian forward Ivica Olic, center, celebrates after scoring against the team's opening goal against Cameroon.

Chilean players celebrate together after midfielder Charles Aranguiz gave them a 2-0 lead against Spain. Chile won the match by that score, eliminating the defending world champions from the soccer tournament.Chilean players celebrate together after midfielder Charles Aranguiz gave them a 2-0 lead against Spain. Chile won the match by that score, eliminating the defending world champions from the soccer tournament.

Eduardo Vargas, right, scores Chile's first goal, firing past Spanish goalkeeper Iker Casillas.Eduardo Vargas, right, scores Chile's first goal, firing past Spanish goalkeeper Iker Casillas.

Australian goalkeeper Mathew Ryan can't reach a shot by Memphis Depay on June 18. Depay's second-half goal gave the Netherlands a 3-2 victory in Porto Alegre, Brazil.Australian goalkeeper Mathew Ryan can't reach a shot by Memphis Depay on June 18. Depay's second-half goal gave the Netherlands a 3-2 victory in Porto Alegre, Brazil.

Robin Van Persie of the Netherlands ties the game at 2-2 with a close-range shot in the second half. It was Van Persie's third goal of the tournament.Robin Van Persie of the Netherlands ties the game at 2-2 with a close-range shot in the second half. It was Van Persie's third goal of the tournament.

A penalty kick from Australian captain Mile Jedinak gives the "Socceroos" a 2-1 lead over the Netherlands. The penalty was awarded after a handball was called against Dutch defender Daryl Janmaat.A penalty kick from Australian captain Mile Jedinak gives the "Socceroos" a 2-1 lead over the Netherlands. The penalty was awarded after a handball was called against Dutch defender Daryl Janmaat.

Australian forward Tim Cahill celebrates after scoring a goal against the Netherlands. His impressive volley tied the match at 1-1. Australian forward Tim Cahill celebrates after scoring a goal against the Netherlands. His impressive volley tied the match at 1-1.

Arjen Robben of the Netherlands opens the scoring. It was his third goal of the tournament.Arjen Robben of the Netherlands opens the scoring. It was his third goal of the tournament.

Russian forward Alexander Kerzhakov, second from right, scores the final goal of a 1-1 draw against South Korea on Tuesday, June 17, in Cuiaba, Brazil.Russian forward Alexander Kerzhakov, second from right, scores the final goal of a 1-1 draw against South Korea on Tuesday, June 17, in Cuiaba, Brazil.

Russian goalkeeper Igor Akinfeev fails to stop South Korea from scoring the first goal of the game late in the second half. Russian goalkeeper Igor Akinfeev fails to stop South Korea from scoring the first goal of the game late in the second half.

Belgium's Dries Mertens shoots what would turn out to be the winning goal during a World Cup match against Algeria on June 17 in Belo Horizonte, Brazil. Belgium won the match 2-1 after trailing 1-0 at halftime.Belgium's Dries Mertens shoots what would turn out to be the winning goal during a World Cup match against Algeria on June 17 in Belo Horizonte, Brazil. Belgium won the match 2-1 after trailing 1-0 at halftime.

Marouane Fellaini of Belgium, far right, tied the game with a powerful header in the second half. Marouane Fellaini of Belgium, far right, tied the game with a powerful header in the second half.

Sofiane Feghouli scores on a penalty kick to give Algeria a 1-0 lead. Sofiane Feghouli scores on a penalty kick to give Algeria a 1-0 lead.

American defender John Brooks, bottom left, celebrates after scoring the winning goal against Ghana during a World Cup match Monday, June 16, in Natal, Brazil. The United States won 2-1 thanks to Brooks' header in the 86th minute.American defender John Brooks, bottom left, celebrates after scoring the winning goal against Ghana during a World Cup match Monday, June 16, in Natal, Brazil. The United States won 2-1 thanks to Brooks' header in the 86th minute.

Andre Ayew of Ghana celebrates after scoring a second-half goal to tie the United States.Andre Ayew of Ghana celebrates after scoring a second-half goal to tie the United States.

Clint Dempsey of the United States reacts after scoring in the first minute of the Ghana match.Clint Dempsey of the United States reacts after scoring in the first minute of the Ghana match.

Germany's Thomas Mueller scores his third goal of the game -- and the fourth for his team -- en route to a 4-0 pasting of Portugal on June 16.Germany's Thomas Mueller scores his third goal of the game -- and the fourth for his team -- en route to a 4-0 pasting of Portugal on June 16.

Mueller's second goal put Germany up 3-0 right before halftime in Salvador, Brazil.Mueller's second goal put Germany up 3-0 right before halftime in Salvador, Brazil.

Mats Hummels, right, celebrates after heading in a corner kick to put Germany up 2-0.Mats Hummels, right, celebrates after heading in a corner kick to put Germany up 2-0.

Mueller opens the scoring on a penalty kick, slotting the ball past Rui Patricio of Portugal. The penalty was awarded after Mario Goetze was brought down in the box.Mueller opens the scoring on a penalty kick, slotting the ball past Rui Patricio of Portugal. The penalty was awarded after Mario Goetze was brought down in the box.

Substitute Vedad Ibisevic shoots past Argentina goalkeeper Sergio Romero to score Bosnia-Herzegovina's historic first World Cup goal Sunday, June 15, at the Maracana Stadium in Rio de Janeiro. But Argentina won the match 2-1.Substitute Vedad Ibisevic shoots past Argentina goalkeeper Sergio Romero to score Bosnia-Herzegovina's historic first World Cup goal Sunday, June 15, at the Maracana Stadium in Rio de Janeiro. But Argentina won the match 2-1.

Argentina's captain, Lionel Messi, celebrates scoring his team's second goal against Bosnia-Herzegovina.Argentina's captain, Lionel Messi, celebrates scoring his team's second goal against Bosnia-Herzegovina.

Argentina's Marcos Rojo celebrates after Sead Kolasinac of Bosnia-Herzegovina scored an own goal in the early minutes of the game.Argentina's Marcos Rojo celebrates after Sead Kolasinac of Bosnia-Herzegovina scored an own goal in the early minutes of the game.

Karim Benzema, left, celebrates with teammate Blaise Matuidi after scoring France's third goal against Honduras on June 15. It was his second goal of the match, which France won 3-0 in Porto Alegre, Brazil.Karim Benzema, left, celebrates with teammate Blaise Matuidi after scoring France's third goal against Honduras on June 15. It was his second goal of the match, which France won 3-0 in Porto Alegre, Brazil.

Honduras goalkeeper Noel Valladares, right, scores an unfortunate own goal after a shot by Benzema rebounded off the post. It was confirmed by FIFA's new goal-line technology.Honduras goalkeeper Noel Valladares, right, scores an unfortunate own goal after a shot by Benzema rebounded off the post. It was confirmed by FIFA's new goal-line technology.

Benzema celebrates with Patrice Evra after scoring France's first goal against Honduras.Benzema celebrates with Patrice Evra after scoring France's first goal against Honduras.

Substitute Haris Seferovic scores Switzerland's winning goal against Ecuador, beating goalkeeper Alexander Dominguez in the third minute of extra time to secure a 2-1 victory in the Group E opener June 15 in Brasilia, Brazil.Substitute Haris Seferovic scores Switzerland's winning goal against Ecuador, beating goalkeeper Alexander Dominguez in the third minute of extra time to secure a 2-1 victory in the Group E opener June 15 in Brasilia, Brazil.

Switzerland's halftime replacement, Admir Mehmedi, scores the equalizer against Ecuador.Switzerland's halftime replacement, Admir Mehmedi, scores the equalizer against Ecuador.

Enner Valencia's header puts Ecuador in front against Switzerland.Enner Valencia's header puts Ecuador in front against Switzerland.

Gervinho, left, celebrates with Didier Drogba of the Ivory Coast after scoring the team's second goal in their World Cup match against Japan on Saturday, June 14. Ivory Coast trailed 1-0 at halftime but came back to win 2-1 in Recife, Brazil.Gervinho, left, celebrates with Didier Drogba of the Ivory Coast after scoring the team's second goal in their World Cup match against Japan on Saturday, June 14. Ivory Coast trailed 1-0 at halftime but came back to win 2-1 in Recife, Brazil.

Japanese goalkeeper Eiji Kawashima tries in vain to stop a Wilfried Bony header from going in for Ivory Coast's first goal. Japanese goalkeeper Eiji Kawashima tries in vain to stop a Wilfried Bony header from going in for Ivory Coast's first goal.

Keisuke Honda, second from right, celebrates scoring Japan's first goal with teammates Yuto Nagatomo, Yuya Osako and Hotaru Yamaguchi.Keisuke Honda, second from right, celebrates scoring Japan's first goal with teammates Yuto Nagatomo, Yuya Osako and Hotaru Yamaguchi.

Italy striker Mario Balotelli, left, heads the winning goal against England on June 14. Italy defeated England 2-1 in Manaus, Brazil.Italy striker Mario Balotelli, left, heads the winning goal against England on June 14. Italy defeated England 2-1 in Manaus, Brazil.

England forward Daniel Sturridge celebrates after scoring a first-half equalizer against Italy.England forward Daniel Sturridge celebrates after scoring a first-half equalizer against Italy.

England goalkeeper Joe Hart dives as Claudio Marchisio's long-range shot gives Italy the lead.England goalkeeper Joe Hart dives as Claudio Marchisio's long-range shot gives Italy the lead.

Uruguay goalkeeper Fernando Muslera, left, looks on as Costa Rica's players celebrate their team's late winner, scored by substitute Marco Urena, on June 14 in Fortaleza, Brazil. Costa Rica won 3-1.Uruguay goalkeeper Fernando Muslera, left, looks on as Costa Rica's players celebrate their team's late winner, scored by substitute Marco Urena, on June 14 in Fortaleza, Brazil. Costa Rica won 3-1.

Oscar Duarte celebrates after scoring Costa Rica's second goal against Uruguay.Oscar Duarte celebrates after scoring Costa Rica's second goal against Uruguay.

Forward Joel Campbell scores Costa Rica's equalizer against Uruguay.Forward Joel Campbell scores Costa Rica's equalizer against Uruguay.

Edinson Cavani puts Uruguay ahead with a first-half penalty kick.Edinson Cavani puts Uruguay ahead with a first-half penalty kick.

Colombia midfielder James Rodriguez celebrates after scoring his team's third and final goal during a match against Greece on June 14 in Belo Horizonte, Brazil. Colombia won 3-0.Colombia midfielder James Rodriguez celebrates after scoring his team's third and final goal during a match against Greece on June 14 in Belo Horizonte, Brazil. Colombia won 3-0.

Colombia forward Teofilo Gutierrez scores the second goal.Colombia forward Teofilo Gutierrez scores the second goal.

Greece goalkeeper Orestis Karnezis fails to keep out a deflected shot by Colombia's Pablo Armero in the fifth minute of the match. Greece goalkeeper Orestis Karnezis fails to keep out a deflected shot by Colombia's Pablo Armero in the fifth minute of the match.

Jean Beausejour of Chile shoots and scores the final goal during his team's 3-1 win over Australia on Friday, June 13, in Cuiaba, Brazil.Jean Beausejour of Chile shoots and scores the final goal during his team's 3-1 win over Australia on Friday, June 13, in Cuiaba, Brazil.

Australian forward Tim Cahill heads in a first-half goal to cut Chile's lead to one. Chile had a 2-0 lead at the time.Australian forward Tim Cahill heads in a first-half goal to cut Chile's lead to one. Chile had a 2-0 lead at the time.

The ball bulges the back of the net after Chile's Jorge Valdivia scored in the 14th minute of the game. The goal came within two minutes of Chile's first goal.The ball bulges the back of the net after Chile's Jorge Valdivia scored in the 14th minute of the game. The goal came within two minutes of Chile's first goal.

Chile forward Alexis Sanchez kicks the ball past two Australians to score the opening goal of the match.Chile forward Alexis Sanchez kicks the ball past two Australians to score the opening goal of the match.

Spanish goalkeeper Iker Casillas, right, reacts after Dutch forward Arjen Robben, center, scored to put the finishing touches on a 5-1 win for the Netherlands on June 13. It was Robben's second goal of the match, which was played in Salvador, Brazil.Spanish goalkeeper Iker Casillas, right, reacts after Dutch forward Arjen Robben, center, scored to put the finishing touches on a 5-1 win for the Netherlands on June 13. It was Robben's second goal of the match, which was played in Salvador, Brazil.

Netherlands forward Robin van Persie, left, celebrates after scoring his second goal of the match to put the Dutch up 4-1. Netherlands forward Robin van Persie, left, celebrates after scoring his second goal of the match to put the Dutch up 4-1.

Stefan de Vrij, right, deflects the ball in for the Netherlands' third goal while van Persie collides with Spanish goalkeeper Iker Casillas.Stefan de Vrij, right, deflects the ball in for the Netherlands' third goal while van Persie collides with Spanish goalkeeper Iker Casillas.

Robben slides on the ground after scoring his first goal. It gave the Dutch a 2-1 lead in the second half.Robben slides on the ground after scoring his first goal. It gave the Dutch a 2-1 lead in the second half.

Van Persie scores a diving header in the first half of the match against Spain. It tied the score at 1-1.Van Persie scores a diving header in the first half of the match against Spain. It tied the score at 1-1.

Xabi Alonso scores on a penalty kick to give Spain an early 1-0 lead.Xabi Alonso scores on a penalty kick to give Spain an early 1-0 lead.

Oribe Peralta celebrates after scoring the only goal in Mexico's 1-0 win over Cameroon on June 13 in Natal, Brazil.Oribe Peralta celebrates after scoring the only goal in Mexico's 1-0 win over Cameroon on June 13 in Natal, Brazil.

Brazilian midfielder Oscar, right, celebrates after scoring a late goal to give his team a 3-1 win over Croatia in the opening match of the World Cup on Thursday, June 12.Brazilian midfielder Oscar, right, celebrates after scoring a late goal to give his team a 3-1 win over Croatia in the opening match of the World Cup on Thursday, June 12.

Neymar scores a penalty kick to give Brazil a 2-1 lead. It was Neymar's second goal of the match, which was played in Sao Paulo, Brazil.Neymar scores a penalty kick to give Brazil a 2-1 lead. It was Neymar's second goal of the match, which was played in Sao Paulo, Brazil.

Croatian goalkeeper Stipe Pletikosa dives but fails to stop the ball as Neymar scores his first goal to tie the match at 1-1.Croatian goalkeeper Stipe Pletikosa dives but fails to stop the ball as Neymar scores his first goal to tie the match at 1-1.

Brazil's Marcelo, second from right, accidentally deflects the ball past his own goalkeeper, Julio Cesar. It was the first goal of the tournament, and it put the host country in an early hole.Brazil's Marcelo, second from right, accidentally deflects the ball past his own goalkeeper, Julio Cesar. It was the first goal of the tournament, and it put the host country in an early hole.








1



2



3



4



5



6



7



8



9



10



11



12



13



14



15



16



17



18



19



20



21



22



23



24



25



26



27



28



29



30



31



32



33



34



35



36



37



38



39



40



41



42



43



44



45



46



47



48



49



50



51



52



53



54



55



56



57



58



59



60



61



62



63



64



65



66



67



68



69



70



71



72



73



74



75



76



77



78



79



80



81



82



83



84



85



86



87



88



89



90



91



92



93



94



95



96



97



98



99



100



101



102



103



104



105



106



107



108



109



110



111



112



113



114



115



116



117



118



119



120



121



122



123



124



125



126








  • Lionel Messi scores twice for Argentina

  • Nigeria qualifies despite 3-2 defeat

  • Iran beaten 3-1 by Bosnia-Herzegovina

  • Edin Dzeko and Miralem Pjanic on target for Bosnia




How are you celebrating the World Cup? Join the global conversation on CNN Facebook Pulse


(CNN) -- Anything you can do, I can do better.


That was the message from Lionel Messi to Brazil's boy wonder Neymar.


Both players, teammates at Barcelona, have lit up this World Cup with four goals in their opening three games.


But unlike Neymar, who at the age of just 22 has scored 35 goals in 52 international appearances, Messi has had to contend with critics who say he never delivers when playing in an Argentina shirt.







Now, having scored more times in this tournament than his previous two World Cups combined, those opinions appear to have disappeared.


Two goals against Nigeria in Wednesday's 3-2 victory secured top spot in Group F against a Super Eagles side which qualified for the last 16 in second place courtesy of Iran's 3-1 defeat by Bosnia.


"Messi is one heck of a player," Nigeria coach Stephen Keshi told reporters.


"You can't take that away from him. He's blessed. I think there are other players in the Argentina squad who are very strong, but Messi is from Jupiter.


"We gave too much respect to the Argentinians and did not play our game in the first half. We played a bit more aggressive in the second half. Congratulations to the Argentina team, I wish them all the best in the tournament."


Messi left Argentina for Spain at the age of 13 -- a move which led many in his homeland to question whether he had taken on a Catalan identity by the time he grew into one of the world's greats.


Surely that myth will be extinguished should Messi lead his country to its first World Cup triumph since 1986 -- and the signs are increasingly encouraging.


He has now scored 42 goals in 88 international appearances while playing with an energy which suggests he may have been saving his best for last following a relatively poor season at Barcelona, which was interrupted by injury.


His last-gasp goal which secured a 1-0 win over a valiant Iran was a moment of magic which will long be remembered.


That goal, which came just moments after Diego Maradona -- arguably Argentina's greatest ever player -- had left the stadium, appeared to signal his arrival as the nation's new hero.


Messi, who turned 27 on Tuesday, said his perfect birthday gift would be to win the World Cup -- and given his recent performances, it would take a brave person to bet against it.


Unlike on Saturday against Iran, Messi required just three minutes to unpick the Nigerian defense in Porto Alegre.


A sumptuous through ball by Javier Mascherano released Angel Di Maria and, when his shot was pushed onto the post by the Nigeria goalkeeper, Messi followed up to lash the ball high into the net.


Nigeria, which hadn't conceded a goal in its previous two games, could scarcely have reacted better.


Just over a minute later, a quick break allowed Ahmed Musa to find space on the left before he cut inside a curled home a delightful effort past the outstretched arm of Sergio Romero.


A draw would have been enough to take Nigeria through to the next stage for the first time since 1998 but the Africans struggled to contain a rampant looking Argentina.


Di Maria, a star of Real Madrid's European Champions League triumph, unleashed a fierce 30-yard drive which Vincent Enyeama, the Nigeria goalkeeper, did well to turn behind.


Enyeama, who has enjoyed an impressive season with French club Lille, then denied Messi from 25 yards as the forward arrowed a free kick towards goal.


But with the first half drawing to a close, he was beaten again as Messi curled home an exquisite effort from 20 yards with his wand-like left-foot.


Nigeria could have been forgiven for beginning to fear the worst at the interval given Messi's moments of magic.


But Stephen Keshi's men appeared reinvigorated after the break and Musa broke through the Argentina defense to level within two minutes of the restart.


Nigeria, paired with Argentina for the fourth time in the World Cup, suffered narrow defeats in each of its previous three fixtures against the South Americans.


But any thoughts that this would finally be its day were soon extinguished when Marcos Rojo bundled in Messi's corner just three minutes later.


The mercurial Messi, having already tormented Nigeria for just over an hour, was then substituted by coach Alejandro Sabella -- either to give him a rest or out of sympathy for his opponents.


As Messi walked off to a standing ovation and an almighty roar from the thousands wearing blue and white packed inside the stadium, the game appeared to meander somewhat.


There was still time for Musa to threaten a hat-trick while Messi's replacement, Ricky Alvarez, should have done better with a headed chance late on.


But with the news of Iran's demise filtering through from Salvador, Nigeria appeared aware of its qualification and a likely showdown with France in Brasilia on Monday.







Iran, which fought so valiantly during the 1-0 defeat by Argentina last Saturday, required a victory to progress for the first time in its history, combined with a Nigerian defeat.


But it was frustrated in its attempt by a Bosnia team, which despite already being unable to qualify for the knockout phase, appeared determined to go out of its first World Cup in style.


Bosnia's 1-0 defeat by Nigeria, which riled coach Safet Susic after his team wrongly had a goal disallowed, left several players inconsolable at the final whistle.


But there was little sign of a hangover and Edin Dzeko, the man whose effort was ruled out, finally gained the goal he so badly craved when he drove home from 20 yards.


Roma's Miralem Pjanic added a second after the break before Reza Ghoochannejad pulled one back with 11 minutes remaining.


But with Iran pushing forward for an equalizer, Avdija Vrsajevic rounded off a rapid move by firing in off the post to secure his country's historic first World Cup victory


Read: Neymar inspires Brazil


Read: FIFA probes Suarez 'bite' incident



No comments:

Post a Comment