DHAKA: The attacker went level at the top of the Golden Boot standings, helping to prevent Ahmed Musa's doubles from gifting Stephen Keshi's men a point

Lionel Messi stole the show for the third Argentina match in a row, propelling his team to a 3-2 win over a dogged Nigeria side who qualified for the World Cup last 16 regardless on Wednesday.

Barcelona superstar Messi was at his brilliant best at Estadio Beira-Rio on Wednesday, following up a stunning half-volley with a superb free kick.

His efforts, though, were twice cancelled out by the equally impressive Ahmed Musa as Nigeria put in a spirited display.

They eventually succumbed as Marcos Rojo's unorthodox finish five minutes after half-time ensured Argentina went through with a maximum haul of nine points.

While Nigeria entered their final Group F fixture needing a draw to guarantee their progression, Bosnia-Herzegovina's 3-1 triumph over Iran meant that they qualified anyway.

The Africa Cup of Nations champions look likely to face France in the last 16, with Argentina probably on course to tackle Switzerland or Ecuador - with Group E set to be concluded later on Wednesday.

Any hopes Nigeria had of getting the point they required were dented immediately as Messi fired the two-time champions ahead.

Angel Di Maria was instrumental, charging into the area before unleashing a fierce strike that hit the post, struck the back of goalkeeper Vincent Enyeama and bounced back onto the woodwork.

BDST: 0047 HRS JUN 25, 2014