Lionel Messi was the star on the night as he helped kee Argentina’s World Cup bid alive with the first goal in a 2-0 victory over Mexico on Saturday.
His 20-yard strike in the 64th minute proved the crucial moment in the game Argentina needed to win after their opening loss to Saudi Arabia, and then the game was put beyond doubt when Fernandez curled a shot inside the far corner three minutes from time.
Although dominating possession, Argentina looked far from certain to break the deadlock with Mexico defending with great organisation and numbers.
19 minutes into the second half Messi received a square ball from Angel Di Maria and with his first touch pushed the ball in front of him, giving him the space to drill his second contact low inside the corner giving Guillermo Ochoa no chance.
Messi can also claim an assist for the second goal, though all the credit goes to substitute Fernandez who after a leg-over, turned inside the Mexican defenders closing him down and produced another effort beyond the Mexican stopper.
The victory moves Argentina second in the group with three points, one behind next opponents Poland and above Saudi Arabia on goal difference. Mexico prop up Group C with a solitary point.