Lionel Messi breathed a huge sigh of relief with Brighton star Alexis Mac Allister giving Argentina the lead against Poland.

Argentina’s star man was denied from the penalty spot shortly before half time with Wojciech Szczesny brilliantly palming away his effort from 12 yards.

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It meant the two teams went in goalless at half time but just over 60 seconds into the second half Lionel Scaloni’s men were in front.

Mac Allister’s somewhat scuffed finish from Nahuel Molina’s low cross from the right crept into the corner of the net to send the travelling Argentina faithful wild in Stadium 974.

It’s Mac Allister’s first ever goal at international level with a win enough for the two-time world champions to finish top of Group C, which would see them meet Australia on Saturday evening.

The Alibceleste doubled their advantage as Manchester City forward Julian Alvarez fired the ball into the top corner.

Argentina were good value for their win having asked plenty of questions of their opponents’ defence.

Marcos Acuna’s sweet left-footed strike whistled just past the post on 28 minutes, while Alvarez had an effort saved by Szczesny moments before Messi’s penalty.

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Meanwhile, Messi had a shot beaten away by the Poland goalkeeper on 70 minutes, while Alvarez blazed a shot into the side-netting after being played through by the Paris Saint-Germain star.

Substitute Lautaro Martinez dragged his shot wide on 85 minutes, while Nicolas Tagliafico had his chipped effort headed off the line.

These were crucial moments in Poland’s bid to reach the Round of 16 with Mexico’s 2-1 win over Saudi Arabia meaning the Poles came second by the skin of their teeth.

Poland beat Mexico to second place on goal difference, with Poland finishing on 0 to Mexico’s -1.