27 Jun 2014

Argentina and Nigeria qualify at Cup

11:40 am on 27 June 2014

A double from Lionel Messi have inspired Argentina to a 3-2 win over African champions Nigeria, assuring them of finishing top of group F at the football World Cup in Brazil.

Lionel Messi celebrates his goal for Argentina against Iran at the World Cup.

Lionel Messi celebrates his goal for Argentina against Iran at the World Cup. Photo: PHOTOSPORT

Nigeria's defeat - their fourth in four meetings at the finals against Argentina - came with the considerable consolation that they still progressed to the second round as Iran lost 3-1 to Bosnia-Herzegovina in the other group game.

Argentina, who are set to face Switzerland in the second round, began to turn on the style after low key wins over Bosnia-Herzegovina and Iran.

Nigeria, who will be appearing in the second round for the first time since 1998, will face France in the first knock-out round.