Yet, Lionel Messi and, more surprisingly, Marcos Rojo scored the goals to keep La Albicelestre's World Cup hopes alive, sending them through to a last 16 encounter with France.

Victor Moses had equalised from the penalty spot following Messi's opener, while Nigeria's midfield trio of John Obi Mikel, Wilfred Ndidi and Oghenekaro Etebo provided energy and power throughout.

However, Rojo's winner eight minutes from time ultimately decided a gripping game in dramatic fashion.

Here are our player ratings.

Argentina

Franco Armani 5.5

Not a great deal to do on his first Argentina start. Went to ground early for the penalty.

Gabriel Mercado 6

Performed better than he did in a back three against Croatia but was still sloppy in possession at times. He provided an accurate cross for the winning goal.

Nicolas Otamendi 5

Made some stray passes early on and struggled to settle.

Marcos Rojo 7

His defending was occasionally last ditch and appeared desperate. Crucially, he scored the decisive winner with an assured finish to send Argentina through.

Nicolas Tagliafico 5.5

Made few forward runs from left-back despite his side dominating possession.