Lionel Messi created two goals to inspire Argentina to a 3-1 international friendly win over Nigeria in Dhaka Tuesday. Messi, cheered by fans with his every touch, set up Gonzalo Higuain for the opening goal after 24 minutes and it was from his mesmerising run and shot that Angel Di Maria doubled the lead two minutes later. Nigeria pulled one back through substitute Chinedu Obasi soon after the restart but an own goal from Elderson midway through the half restored Argentina's two-goal cushion. Messi entertained the Bangladesh fans right from kickoff and the playmaker went close to breaking the deadlock on 15 minutes when his freekick whistled inches past the post. A strong Argentina side then went in front thanks to Messi's astute chipped pass that found an unmarked Higuain and he fired home. Argentina's second soon after owed much to a brilliant jinking run by Messi who beat three defenders before seeing his curling shot saved by Dele Aiyegnuba. The keeper was powerless though from stopping Di Maria tapping in the rebound. Messi almost grabbed a third in first-half stoppage time but this time was denied by a fine save by Dele. Nigeria coach Samon Siasia sent on Obasi for the second half and he made an immediate impact by netting from close range after a deflected shot from John Obi Mikel fell to him. Fellow substitute Ahmed Musa then fired wide but Argentina grabbed a third goal on 65 minutes when Elderson put through his own net. Warnock eyes Beckham Queens Park Rangers manager Neil Warnock Wednesday dropped the biggest hint yet that the Premier League side is chasing David Beckham. Newly promoted Rangers, who last month saw ambitious Malaysian businessman Tony Fernandes become the majority shareholder, have since consistently been linked with Beckham, who plays for LA Galaxy. “About three weeks ago I would not have dreamed to sign Joey Barton so I will never write anything off,” said Warnock, who has embellished his squad with several new players since Fernandes arrived at the London club. “The chairman Tony Fernandes has got such (an opinion)... why accept the average when you can reach for the top?”
