Messi threads a precise pass to Ángel Di María on the left, leading to a left‑footed shot that is saved low in the bottom right corner by the goalkeeper.

Following a corner, Messi picks out Javier Mascherano outside the box, but Mascherano’s right‑footed effort flies over the bar.

Messi carries the ball out of pressure in his own half and draws a foul, winning a free kick in the defensive zone.

Messi again helps Argentina relieve pressure by keeping the ball under control and earning a free kick in the defensive half.

From close range on the left side of the six‑yard box, Messi’s right‑footed attempt is blocked after being set up by Sergio Agüero.

Messi delivers a teasing cross from a set‑piece, finding Eduardo Salvio in the center of the box, but Salvio’s header sails over the bar.

From another set‑piece, Messi swings in a precise cross that reaches Sergio Agüero, whose header from the center of the box just misses the top left corner.

Messi lays the ball off to Sergio Agüero outside the box, but Agüero’s right‑footed strike is blocked by the Russian defense.

Messi feeds Sergio Agüero in shooting position outside the area, yet Agüero’s right‑footed shot flies too high over the goal.

Driving down the right wing, Messi is fouled as he tries to advance, winning a dangerous free kick for Argentina.

Messi unleashes a left‑footed shot from outside the box that goes narrowly wide to the right, coming close to doubling Argentina’s lead.