Argentina pulled off a stunner to beat Nigeria 2-1 and qualify for the knockout stages where they will face France in the Round of 16 of the World Cup.
It was Lionel Messi who started the scoring for Argentina scoring early on in the first half but then Victor Moses converted from the penalty spot and made it 1-1. For the longest time, it looked like the Super Eagles will hold onto the scoreline and secure a second place finish in the group.
But then Manchester United defender Marcos Rojo stepped up to the plate and scored an 86th-minute goal to seal a late victory for Argentina.
Lionel Messi had come alive during the game much to the delight of many of his fans. And as Sampaoli’ team were coming out of their dressing room after half-time the cameras caught Lionel Messi delivering a team talk to his mates.
And former England defender Rio Ferdinand had claimed that it was this pep talk from Lionel Messi that helped Argentina achieve the victory.
Now goalscorer Marcos Rojo has revealed what their captain had actually told them in the tunnel.
Rojo, branding Messi as the best captain of all times, said: “Messi came up to us and told us to calm down and not be stressed,
“Messi is our captain and he’s the best captain in the world, it was amazing to score that goal.
“Messi told everyone that it was either life or death. It could’ve gone badly. We could’ve conceded but Leo was stubborn.
“He told me to run forward. Even [Javier] Mascherano. He told everyone to attack no matter what. He truly read the game and risks. He’s a leader. The best.”
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