World Cup Round of 16: Argentina beat Mexico in extra time; “perfect” free kick eliminates Ecuador

Argentina beat Mexico 2-1 in a spectacular match that went into extra time. It was an exciting game early on as Rafael Marquez scored in the 6^th minute and Hernan Crespo equalized four minutes later. Both teams had numerous great chances afterwards though no other goals were scored in regulation. Eight minutes into extra time, Argentina’s Maxi Rodriguez (image, after scoring game winning goal) unleashed a phenomenal blast that curled its way past Oswaldo Sanchez and would serve as the game-winning goal. (YouTube video of what may well be the goal of the tournament can be seen here). “Los Albicelestes” go on to the quarterfinals where they have a tough test in playing against Germany. For the third straight World Cup Mexico gets eliminated in the round of 16, though they put up a great fight until the very end.

There is a reason why a 2002 film was named after the free kick prowess of England’s David Beckham. A 60^th minute free kick beauty from Beckham’s boot curled its way past Ecuadorian goalie Cristian Mora (image, as the ball just barely gets out of his reach) and was the lone goal in Ecuador’s 1-0 loss to England. Ecuador created few scoring opportunities aside from a Carlos Tenorio blast that was deflected off the crossbar. The Ecuador team will return home “with our heads up”, according to their coach, after making it past the group stage of the World Cup for their first time ever.

soccer, world cup, Mexico, argentina, ecuador