Argentina 2-1 Mexico

Argentina defeated Mexico 2-1 in their World Cup second-round match on Saturday.

It was an explosive start with both teams playing a fast-paced game in search of an early goal. In the 6th minute, Rafael Marquez puts Mexico in front with a right-footed shot, sprinting in beyond the far post to half-volley into the roof of the net. However, Argentina levelled the score 4 minutes later. A corner from the right was deflected into his own net by Borgetti but the goal was credited to Hernan Crespo.

The first half continued with lively actions from both sides as openings were created for Crespo and Borgetti but neither could take advantage of the chances. In the second half, the pace slowed down considerably as both teams contemplated the possibilty of playing extra time and sought to conserve energy. There were sporadic shots on goal from both sides but none yielded anything.

Messi, Tevez (both outstanding in previous matches) and Pablo Aimar came on as substitutes as Argentina were desperate to clinch the winner and avoid extra time. Just before the end of the second half, Messi had the ball in the net but it was denied by a dubious offside flag. In the 98th minute, Rodriguez scores a brilliant goal by chesting the ball on the right edge of the box and then firing a left-foot volley on the full into the top left corner. Mexico was out as they fought back but just could not equalize.

Soccer Pundit saw a spirited performance by the Mexicans who took the fight to the Argentinians and proved that they are no walkovers. For those who are not aware, Mexico actually have a rich football history and they, like Argentina, have lifted the world cup before. So, it was a really hard fought match and nobody could find a way to break the deadlock for the entire 90 minutes.

Despite the immense talents Argentina possess in the team, the Mexicans showed they were the better team in certain phases of the game. They were quick on the counter-attack and cause a lot of trouble for the Argentine defence. Gabriel Heinze's momentary loss of concentration almost cost them the match and he was lucky not to be sent off for bringing down Jose Fonseca just before halftime.

Nevertheless, the one thing missing in the Mexican team, besides luck, was an inspirational player who can turn the game around when it counted. Argentina showed their championship form and winner's mentality by doing just that in extra time. They now face Germany in what could be a delectable match for soccer fans as both teams are dripping with skills and attacking prowess.

It is a waste that the two soccer greats have crossed each other's path so early in the tournament. Soccer Pundit feels that the team with a sturdier defence will pull through, and the team which emerge as winner may just go on to be the world champion...