Lionel Messi must have heard the critics, because he’s doing everything he can to silence them at the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil.
The three-time Ballon d’Or award winner had struggled on the international stage before this year, managing only one goal in two disappointing World Cups for Argentina in 2006 and 2010. This year has been a different story for Messi, who poured in two goals in his first two games this year, both Argentina wins.
Messi continued his scoring onslaught against Nigeria on Wednesday in Argentina’s group finale.
Less than three minutes into the action, Messi opened the scoring by blasting in a rebound attempt to put his team ahead 1-0.
Nigeria later tied the score at 1, but the 5-foot-7 striker was not to be denied. In the 46th minute, Messi unleashed a perfect free kick from distance that curled past Nigeria’s goalkeeper to give Argentina the lead again.
La Albiceleste went on to win 3-2, thanks in large part to Messi, who’s tied with Brazilian forward Neymar for the most goals in the tournament so far with four.
Argentina has punched its ticket to the Round of 16 and will be back in action on July 1. If Wednesday was any indication, expect more brilliance from No. 10.
Thumbnail photo via Twitter/@CopaMundial2014
