KASHIMA, Ibaraki Pref. -- A second-half goal from striker Gabriel Batistuta helped Argentina beat Nigeria 1-0 and earn three precious points in Group F, known as the "Group of Death," on Sunday at Kashima Soccer Stadium.
"We are happy as we beat a great rival Nigeria in our first important game of the tournament," said Argentina midfielder Juan Veron, whose corner set up the "Bati goal" in the 63rd minute.
Argentina coach Marcelo Bielsa had fretted all week about whether to play Batistuta or Hernan Crespo up front and must have been pleased he opted for the former.