Argentina star Lionel Messi admitted to nerves in his side’s victory over Bosnia-Herzegovina during their first game of the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, BBC Sport reports.
The 26-year-old struggled to make an impact before a sublime effort put his side two up as they went on to win 2-1.
“It’s the first game, I was anxious, nervous,” said Messi.
“It was important to start with a win. We’ve got to improve certain things, but it was important to start with the three points.”
Argentina took the lead through a Sead Kolasinac own goal which came from a Messi left-wing free-kick, although Alejandro Sabella’s side stuttered through the first half.
But La Albiceleste captain Messi sparked his performance and that of his side to life when he played a one-two with Gonzalo Higuain, went past two defenders and drilled in a low shot.
It was his second goal in nine World Cup games, and first in 623 minutes since his effort against Serbia and Montenegro at the 2006 tournament.
“I wanted to release all the energy from other times when things didn’t go right (with the national team),” said Messi. “It’s always a pleasure to score with the national team.”
He added, “We had a great second half. We had the ball much more, created several opportunities and that’s what we have to continue to do.”
Sabella’s half-time switch in formation from 3-5-2 to 4-3-3 played a pivotal role in his side’s improvement.
“As strikers, we prefer that system as it gives us more attacking opportunities and if we don’t use that system we suffer a bit,” said Messi.
“I was often on my own and so was Kun (Sergio Aguero) and it was very difficult, so there are things to be improved on.”
Argentina, who are aiming to win a third World Cup, play Iran on June 21 in their next game.
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