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Argentina edges Nigeria 1-0 in World Cup

(Xinhua)
Updated: 2010-06-13 09:18

Argentina's Lionel Messi (front) battles for the ball with Nigeria's Haruna Lukman during the 2010 World Cup Group B soccer match at Ellis Park stadium in Johannesburg June 12, 2010. [Agencies]

Nigeria had a wonderful opportunity to make it even but Taya Taiwo's blast narrowly missed the target at the 70th minute.

Then at the 78th minute, Nigerian forward Obafemi Martins hammered from 25 meters away and forced a punch-away save from Argentine keeper Sergio Romero.

It was Maradona's first World Cup meeting with the Nigerians in 14 years. He won the last of his 91 caps against Nigeria at the 1994 World Cup. He subsequently failed a doping test and was sent home from the tournament.

Maradona gave thumbs-up to Nigeria goalkeeper Enyeama, who was voted the Man of the Match.

"I want to congratulate the Nigerian keeper and he stopped three or four goals," he said.

Nigeria coach Lagerback said he was "proud of his players" but admitted he was "disappointed by the result".

The Swede said a lapse of concentration cost Nigeria dearly, referring to Argentina's goal.

"If you lose concentration, you will be punished. We were punished this time," he said.