Well, quite simply it was as straightforward as you are likely to get at World Cup level..........but this is a game that could easily have ended in a draw.
Argentina were in charge and imperious for most of the game, however they were unable to turn their possession into goals and with altitude clearly having an effect toward the end of the game, Maradona will have been pleased to get a first win out of the way.
With El Diego following his side out in a natty grey suit, there was clearly a friendly atmosphere going in to this one. As it turned out, much of the first half was more like a training exercise for Maradona's men.
El Diego went with the expected side, playing a 4-3-3, with Tevez joining Higuain and Messi in attack, but the big surprise was seeing Jonas Guttierez playing as a right back, not at right wing-back. Considering Jonas has been playing as left winger for his club Newcastle, this was something of a shock, and there were times during the game when playing in this position was a shock to Gutierrez himself.
Nigeria coach Lars Lagerbeck has always been famous for the discipline and organisation that he brings to his sides, however his defence parted in biblical fashion, giving the much maligned Gabriel Heinze the freedom of Africa to head open his sides opener in the sixth minute.
Argentina should have went on and won handsomely, that they didn't was down to Nigeria keeper Vincent Enyeama and some fairly wasteful finishing from Gonzalo Higuain. Had Nigeria used a bit more nous, then there was scope to hurt Argentina.
Everything I expected from La Albiceleste was on show. Formidable up front, outstanding in possession, but the back four continues to look like an accident waiting to happen, and better sides than Nigeria will have taken note.
Messi found space, Veron dictated and Mascherano was outstanding throughout, but you really have to question Guttierez as a right back. The argument that good players can play anywhere never really washes. Jonas may be able to put a tackle in, but changing from an attacker to a defender is more than just the odd tackle, positioning and timing (especially in and around the penalty box) is critical.
Questions will also be asked regarding Gonzalo Higuain. Industrious, yet ineffective, with players like Milito and Aguero breathing down Gonzalo's neck, he's going to have to hope that Maradona maintains faith in him.
All in all though a satisfactory days work for El Diego......with a few questions pending.
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