South American Futbol - Libertadores, Sudamericana, World Cup 2010

Argentina were stronger than Mexico -Photo: Terra

Carlos Tevez scored twice and Gonzalo Higuain added another to give Argentina a 3-1 win over Mexico and passage into the quarter-finals of the 2010 World Cup. Los Albicelestes proved superior to the Mexicans and practically sealed their win early in the second half, to set-up a fascinating meeting with Germany, who thrashed England 4-1.

Mexico had a lot to prove, after being eliminated by Argentina at this exact instance four years ago, and they came closest to opening the scoring when Carlos Salcido hit the crossbar with a powerful shot in the eighth minute.

But it was Argentina who went ahead in the 26th minute, when Tevez headed in a Lionel Messi pass when coming from an offside position. Italian referee Roberto Rosetti awarded the goal after consultation with his linesman.

Higuain doubled Argentina’s lead seven minutes later, when he rounded Mexico goalkeeper Omar Perez before slotting home. It was Higuain’s fourth goal of the tournament, making him the highest scorer.

Tevez added Argentina’s third goal in the 52nd minute, when he beat two defenders before firing the ball into the angle of the goal from 25-metres out. The strike was without doubt one of the best of the tournament.

Javier Hernandez — who will play for Manchester United next season — pulled a goal back for Mexico in the 71st minute, an action that motivated Javier Aguirre’s side, who went looking for another goal.

The more than 84,000 fans who attended the match at Soccer City Stadium in Johannesburg witnessed a match that for Argentina appeared more difficult on paper.

Diego Maradona’s side are only three wins away from winning their first World Cup since 1986, an achievement that would confirm Maradona of legendary status for eternity.