World Cup: Nigeria qualifies for Round of 16

Lionel Messi scored twice as Argentina won a thriller against Nigeria, who also qualified for the World Cup knockout round despite the defeat.

Super Eagles celebrate Ahmed MusaNigeria will face Group E leader France in a knockout match on Monday, June 20.

The Barcelona wizard opened the scoring with a ferocious half-volley before Ahmed Musa equalised within 80 seconds with a delightful curling finish.

Messi made it 2-1 before the break with a 25-yard free-kick, but Musa grabbed his second when he fired in low.

Marcos Rojo scored the winner when he knocked in a corner ball with his knee.

The result means Argentina finish top of Group F with three wins from three games, while the African champions qualify in second with four points after Iran failed to defeat Bosnia-Herzegovina.

Iran’s hopes of qualifying for the World Cup last 16 ended as it lost 1-3 to already-eliminated Bosnia-Herzegovina.

Carlos Queiroz’s side could have progressed to the second round with a win but their hopes were dented when Edin Dzeko gave the Bosnians a deserved lead with a crisp shot from 25 yards.

Roma’s Miralem Pjanic slid home a second after the break.

Reza Ghoochannejad pulled one back but Avdija Vrsajevic sealed it to give Bosnia their first World Cup win.