- Diego Maradona could not contain his joy as Argentina won it late against Nigeria
- TV cameras could not keep him in shot as he gestured to the fans
Goals from Messi and Rojo secured qualification for Argentina as Victor Moses also scored his first goal in the World Cup for Nigeria.
READ ALSO: Messi scores as Argentina pip Nigeria 2-1 to qualify for round of 16
Maradona went bonkers in the stands following Marcos Rojo's superb goal, and it was clear it had transformed the former Argentina number 10 play-maker into a vibrant uncontrollable teenager.
Diego Armando Maradona reacts following the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group D match between Nigeria and Argentina at Saint Petersburg Stadium in Saint Petersburg, Russia. Photo: Getty Images
The round bellied football icon was least to say ecstatic at his team's survival and began waving the middle-finger back and forth in a state of defiance to all those who had ruled out Argentina.
Diego Armando Maradona reacts following the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group D match between Nigeria and Argentina at Saint Petersburg Stadium in Saint Petersburg, Russia. Photo: Getty Images
It was no doubt that el Pelusa had lost himself frolicking over Albiceleste's triumph and did not care at all who was watching him or where he was. TV cameras cut right away from him as he gestured to the crowd.
Diego Armando Maradona reacts following the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group D match between Nigeria and Argentina at Saint Petersburg Stadium in Saint Petersburg, Russia. Photo: Getty Images
The passionate Argentine and Argentina fans world over will be more than thrilled to have edged out Nigeria and made it to the last 16 following a dismal start to their World Cup campaign.
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As YEN.com.gh reported, Argentina beat Nigeria with the winner coming from Marcos Rojo in the 85th minute. The defender marched into the penalty area to meet Mercado's cross to volley an unstoppable effort into the bottom corner.
Diego Armando Maradona reacts following the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group D match between Nigeria and Argentina at Saint Petersburg Stadium in Saint Petersburg, Russia. Photo: Getty Images
The last minute gasp fired Argentina to the next stage of the competition where they will face Group C winners France in the last 16 in Kazan on Saturday, June 30.
READ ALSO: Here is why the referee didn't give Nigeria a penalty for Rojo's hand ball
Meanwhile, Group D winners Croatia, who secured top spot after defeating World Cup debutants Iceland 2-1, will play Denmark in the round of 16.