For a while there were shades of Cameroon’s famous World Cup win over Argentina in 1990 as La Albiceleste were frustrated by a physical opponent but despite falling behind early, Pablo Aimar’s side scored three times in the second half to secure an important Group E victory.

The opening day draw against Spain had shown plenty of promise but did mean Argentina needed a win to kickstart their campaign against a Cameroon side desperate for something after a surprise defeat to Tajikstan.

The worst possible start for Argentina saw Francois Bere head Cameroon in front after ten minutes with a towering header and despite seeing plenty of the ball, Los Pibes couldn’t find an equaliser.

Facundo Cano thought he had won a penalty at the end of the first half when tripped as he burst into the penalty area but after a VAR review the contact was deemed minimal.

The goal did eventually come just before the hour mark, a corner from the right volleyed back across goal by Bruno Amione and centre back partner Francisco Flores leaping to head over the goal line from close range.

And it was swiftly two. An error from substitute goalkeeper Jacques Mbiandjeu after being on the pitch only a couple of minutes allowed Exequiel Palacios to steal in behind and eventually lay the ball on for Juan Pablo Krilanovich to tap in.

Having taken the lead and been dominant for large parts, there was still a scare when Cameroon struck the underside of the bar. Only the good fortune of the bounce not carrying the ball behind the line saved Argentina before Lautaro Cano squared for Matías Godoy to roll in a third.

Argentina sit second behind Spain on goal difference after the Europeans thrashed Tajikstan 5-1 and will guarantee their progression with a draw on Sunday.