Gonzalo Higuain scored the first hat trick at the FIFA World Cup since 2002 as Argentina all but assured themselves a place in the last 16 with an impressive 4-1 victory over South Korea at Soccer City.
Diego Maradona's men were on top from the time they took the lead through a Park Chu young own goal in the 17th minute. Higuain doubled the advantage after 33 minutes, but a lapse in concentration from Martin Demichelis on the stroke of half time allowed Lee Chung yong to give his side hope.
After briefly threatening a comeback early in the second half, the Koreans faded, thanks to a double from Real Madrid striker Higuain that handed his side maximum points from their opening two fixtures in Group B.
The first real chance of the match fell to Higuain on the right after good build up play involving Carlos Tevez and Lionel Messi, but the shot was lashed over.
It did not take much longer, though, for the first goal to arrive, a nicely flighted free kick from Barcelona forward Messi on the left caught out Park Chu young as he deflected the ball into his own net.
In a press conference after the game Diego Maradona through a translator rubbished claims made by some people that he is not a good coach.
A reporter also asked Maradona about his affection shown towards players during and after the match.
Meanwhile, a blunder by Nigeria goalkeeper Vincent Enyeama handed Greece their first victory at the fifth attempt in two FIFA World Cup finals.
Greece won the match 2-1.
It also maintains their slim hopes of an appearance in the next stage although their final Group B game is against Argentina.
Nigeria now face an early exit.
A group A match is currently being played between France and Mexico with both teams locked at nil-all.
