Argentina coming from behind to defeat a Croatia side obviously more concerned about their upcoming European Championship qualifier with Italy is perhaps not much of a story, but the return to action for Carlos Tevez and Lionel Messi moving back to the right will probably take up more column inches.
Despite resting several key players, Croatia took the lead after 11 minutes when Anas Sharbini was left completely alone on the left as Pablo Zabaleta had been drawn infield and Sharbini made no mistake in firing the ball past Sergio Romero.
Through Messi and Agüero, Argentina threatened on occasions but could not force an equaliser before the break.
However, just minutes into the second half parity was restored although not in the most expected of ways. Cristian Ansaldi’s powerful drive deflected off the elbow of Sergio Agüero and flew into the back of the net.
Less than ten minutes later, Argentina led when Messi’s delightful pass released Agüero and the Manchester City striker managed to toe the ball past Lovre Kalinic before being brought down. Messi stepped up to take the penalty after missing his last one against Brazil and sent the goalkeeper the wrong way.
In the second half the West Ham fans were treated to an appearance from their former hero, Carlos Tevez and although there was a brief glimpse at goal, Tevez failed to make much of an impression.
Even from his position on the right, Messi still dictated Argentina’s best moments as Martino continues to tinker with the side. The Portugal match in a few days will give another opportunity and perhaps Tevez will be given a little longer.
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