Argentina took all three points against Australia in Shanghai, but the reigining Olympic champions must be puzzled as to why they only managed a shaky 1-0 win.
With a team that boasts some of world soccer’s biggest names such as Lionel Messi (Barcelona), Juan Roman Riquelme (Boca Juniors), Javier Mascherano (Liverpool) and Fernando Gago (Real Madrid) - one could be forgiven for feeling nervous about Australia’s chances.
Ezequiel Lavezzi, who plays for Napoli in Italy, dashed Australia’s hopes just as an unlikely draw was beginning to look a possibility, when he rounded off a sublime team move for Argentina.
Argentina took position against the run of play, with both Messi and Riquelme involved in a quick exchange, which cut Australia’s defence to pieces.
Messi was the man on everyone’s lips before the match and there was no wonder, considering the Barcelona forward earns a staggering $35 million per year.
It was all Argentina in the opening moments of the night's encounter, with Riquelme flashing a free-kick to the Argentine’s just wide of Australian goalkeeper Adam Federici’s left post in the 13th minute.
Much to the surprise of the crowd, Australia - who until this moment had looked to be in awe of the names on Argentina’s team sheet - began to make some moves of their own.
Billy Celeski went on a magical run in the 18 yard box, twisting and turning his way in between a bevy of sky blue and white striped shirts before scuffing his shot into a chasing Argentine defender.
Archie Thompson found himself open on goal in the 38th minute only to pull his shot wide in what appeared to be an attempted cross to the oncoming Ruben Zadkovich at the far post for the Olyroos.
The second half was much of the same, with Argentina dominating position and becoming increasingly anxious with the 0-0 score line.
Australia made a substitute after the Argentines scored, with Nikita Rukavytsya almost making an immediate impact 15 seconds after coming on.
The Perth Glory striker has been a controversial selection in Arnold’s squad and broke free only to fire his shot into the side netting.
Australia faces the Ivory Coast next, and will need to win to have any hope of progressing to the knockout phase of the tournament.
