Heinze opened the scoreline in the sixth minute after some slack marking from a corner and he produced a diving header that nestled in the roof of the net. Chidi Odiah on the line could do little to prevent the powerful effort.

Lionel Messi was at his inspirational best as Argentina dominated the match and they had a host of chances to extend their lead but were foiled on numerous occasions by inspired Nigeria keeper Vincent Enyeama.