Argentina left it late as they booked their place in the round of 16 in Russia 2018 after a 2-1 victory against Nigeria.
Goals from Messi and Rojo secured qualification for Argentina as Victor Moses also scored his first goal in the World Cup for Nigeria.
Maradona went bonkers in the stands, following Rojo's goal, and it was clear the goal had transformed the former Argentina number 10 play-maker into a young man once again.
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 cared not the least at who was watching him or where he was.
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.
As TUKO.co.ke formerly reported howManchester United defender Rojo spoilt the party in the 85th minute, marching 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.
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.
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