Argentina vs. Mexico was one of the most intriguing matches in the second round of the Qatar 2022 FIFA World Cup, which is why FIFA scheduled it for primetime and at the largest venue in Qatar, Lusail Iconic Stadium, which can hold 80,000 spectators and will host the World Cup championship.
Argentina defeated a middling Mexico thanks in large part to the second-half goal by Lionel Messi, who was essential to their chances of moving on to the knockout round.
Mexico vs. Argentina: first half
In the first half, Mexico and Argentina provided fans at Lusail Stadium and around the world with a wonderful spectacle, but there weren't many obvious goal opportunities.
Gerardo Martino, the coach of Mexico, was taken aback by his team's decision to play without a center forward and instead put five defenders on the pitch to try to contain Lionel Messi and company.
With a few counterattacks aiming to take advantage of their speedy midfielders and forwards, the game was primarily played in the middle of the field.
Andres Guardado, the captain of Mexico, had to leave the match due to an injury just before halfway and was replaced by Erick Gutierrez.
Both teams ended the half scoreless and left everything for the last 45 minutes.
Mexico vs. Argentina: second half
The first manager to alter the starting elevens was Lionel Scaloni of Argentina.
In the 62nd minute, Gerardo Martino positioned his bench higher.
Lionel Messi only needed one more opportunity, and he took it superbly with his left foot from outside the penalty area, setting up Guillermo Ochoa to score the game's first goal.
This goal was cheered by Argentine fans inside and outside the stadium as it temporarily gives them the chance to win.
Argentina retreated after Messi's goal, guarding the outcome, and Mexico finally tried to attack and net the equalizer.
Mexico had its best opportunities to score in front of Martinez in the final few minutes, but Argentina quickly took advantage of their excellent ball handling abilities and Enzo Fernandez scored a fantastic goal.
Both teams are hopeful that they will advance to the knockout stages, but they will have to wait until the final leg of the Group Stage to find out their fate.
Pablo Aimar on Argentina's bench was overpowered.
As a child, Pablo Aimar was Lionel Messi's favorite player, which is a fantastic compliment for the Argentine from Messi, who is regarded as one of the greatest players in history.
Pablo Aimar was in tears on the bench during Argentina's game against Mexico after Lionel Messi scored the goal that started the scoreboard. For the Argentina National Team, Aimar serves as Lionel Scaloni's assistant coach.