BELO HORIZONTE – Lionel Messi scored a brilliant injury time winner as Argentina overcame Iran 1-0 to book their place in the last 16 of the World Cup in Belo Horizonte Saturday.

Four-time world player of the year Messi curled in a sublime shot from just outside the area in the first minute of stoppage time to break Iranian hearts after a gripping Group F battle.

Argentina captain Messi had been largely anonymous for much of the match as Iran frustrated the South American giants at the Mineirao Stadium.

Iran, with only one win in four appearances at the World Cup, looked to have secured a famous draw.