In a game that featured exciting, up-and-down action throughout, Argentina clipped Nigeria 1-0 in a Group F match in Ibaraki, Japan. Forward Gabriel Batitusta scored the only goal Argentina would need on a spectacular header off a corner kick by Juan Veron in the second half.

While both sides had excellent scoring chances in the first half, Argentina came on strong in the second half, carrying the play to the Nigerians, who were blitzed by the smaller yet faster and more aggressive Argentine players. Argentine midfielder Juan Sorin, in particular, was set up nicely a couple of times by fellow middle man Ariel Ortega, but the Cruzeiro member's header and rocket-kick sailed just wide both times.

Nigerian goalie Ike Shoronmu also came up spectacular on a number of occasions, and if it wasn't for his heroics, the game could have been blown wide open. Speaking of blows, Nigeria suffered one in the second half when striker Nwankwo Kanu had to come off due to an injury he suffered in the first half.

Argentina next faces England on June 7, while Nigeria will take on Sweden the same day.

(Glen Choi, glen@chosun.com )