After receiving a good deal of hype entering the World Cup, Argentina hasn’t quite lived to its lofty expectations. Notably, Lionel Messi has been held off the board in his first two games, which isn’t the best look for somebody who sure feels comfortable in wink-wink GOAT photoshoots.
Finally, with backs against the wall and a win over Nigeria needed to stave off elimination on Tuesday, Messi was able to show out. His first goal of the tournament gave Argentina a crucial 1-0 lead early -- and Argentine football legend Diego Maradona absolutely loved it.
Although Nigeria would tie the game later on, Marcos Rojo’s 86th-minute goal won it late for Argentina, ensuring their place in the round of 16; they’ll play France on Saturday.
It was an eventful day for Argentina, and like the fans back at home, Maradona was living it up as his team emerged victorious. In fact, he might’ve been feeling the celebratory mood a little too much, as he had to be treated by paramedics after nearly collapsing at the game.
The World Cup is serious business for fans, but stay safe out there! Maradona’s condition is currently unknown, although recent reports from Argentinian newspapers suggest that he was able to walk himself out of the stadium normally.
