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Stefan Tonev
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Messi inspires Argentina to crucial win over Mexico
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The 35-year-old scored with a delightful shot to give La Albiceleste's lead in the second half

Leo Messi produced a moment of magic to inspire Argentina to a vital 2-0 victory over Mexico in a pulsating Group C match at the 2022 World Cup on Saturday.

The crucial win reignated La Albiceleste’s World Cup dream as they knew defeat at the Lusail Icon Stadium would end their hopes of reaching the knockout phase after an opening match’s shock loss to Saudi Arabia.

The Paris Saint-Germain forward ran towards Argentina’s fans with outstretched arms before getting mobbed by his jubilant teammates after opening the score 19 minutes after the break with his side teetering.

Messi, playing at a World Cup for a fifth time, looked emotional as he grabbed and shook his jersey, then blew a kiss to the crowd before whirling his arms.

Substitute Enzo Fernandez doubled Argentina’s lead with a superb curling effort into the top corner three minutes from time as La Albiceleste got their World Cup campaign back on track.

Messi’s 21st appearance in the World Cup matched the iconic Diego Armando Maradona and the second goal’s assist made him the first player to provide at five different World Cups with another display to enhance his legacy further.

Win over Poland assures the 35-year-old Messi will have one more game in what could be his last World Cup while a draw and other results going their way will also see Argentina into the Round of 16.

The Mexicans have yet to score in Qatar, their streak of eight straight knockout stage appearances in serious jeopardy.

El Tri need a win over Saudi Arabia and hope Argentina don’t get a result against Poland.