Lionel Messi scored a superb winning goal as Argentina got their World Cup campaign off to a winning start, narrowly beating Bosnia Herzegovina at the Maracana stadium.
Pressure was heavy on the Barcelona man after failing to help Argentina in previous World Cup’s but he was involved early on as his free kick caused problems amongst the Bosnia-Herzegovina defenders and Sead Kolasinac put the ball into his own net.
However, the European side refused to lie down and they battled back well, with Izet Hajrovic causing Argentine keeper Sergio Romero problems.
Javier Mascherano then came close but saw his effort saved well by Asmir Begovic, before Senad Lulic tested Romero down the other end.
The South Americans started the second period well and Messi came close after neat link up with Sergio Aguero, but the four-time Ballon d’Or winner would not have to wait long until he scored.
Messi picked the ball up on the right hand side and dribbled past two defenders, before firing his 20-yard shot into the bottom corner off the post.
Vedad Ibisevic did manage to get a goal back for the European side but it proved too little too late as Argentina held on for the win.