Lionel Messi scored a brilliant injury time winner as Argentina overcame Iran 1-0 to book their place in the last 16 of the World Cup in Belo Horizonte on Saturday.
Four-time world player of the year Messi curled in a sublime shot from just outside the area in the first minute of stoppage time to break Iranian hearts after a gripping Group F battle.
Argentina captain Messi had been largely anonymous for much of the match as Iran frustrated the South American giants at the Mineirao Stadium.
Iran, with only one win in four appearances at the World Cup, looked to have secured a famous draw.
The Asian minnows might even have snatched victory only to be denied by Argentina keeper Sergio Romero, who pulled off fine second half saves from England-based duo Ashkan Dejagah and Reza Ghoochannejad.
But with the clock ticking down, Messi picked up the ball on the edge of the area and after being granted time to pick his spot, curled in his second goal of the tournament.
The result leaves Argentina assured of a place in the last 16, joining Colombia, Costa Rica, Chile and Holland in the second round.
