An early goal by Guido Rodríguez gave Argentina a vital win over Uruguay.
Lionel Messi a spirited Argentina side to a narrow but much-needed win over Uruguay in game 2 of Group A.
The talisman and Rodrigo De Paul were quick with a one-two off the corner, allowing Messi to break free down the left of the Uruguay box. His cross went through to the back post, where it was met by the head of Rodríguez to give the hosts the lead.
Manchester United’s Edinson Cavani was able to cut into the box, and the striker seemed to go down after contact from Rodríguez, but referee Wilton Sampaio didn’t think it was enough to award the spot kick for the Sky Blues.
After the interval Óscar Tabárez’s side came out looking the stronger of the two teams, but for all their possession they were unable to register a single shot in the second half until the 75th minute. Uruguay continued to press their rivals, but still couldn’t find a way through the surprisingly sturdy Argentina defence.
The win takes Argentina top of Group A.
