Pekerman's side were being held by a brave Mexico side, but won 2-1 thanks to Maxi Rodriguez's brilliant long-range volley in the 98th minute.

"It's vital to take the chance when it arrives in as well-balanced a meeting as that," Pekerman said.

"And we did - deservedly so. It was a match between two rivals who know each other so well."

Goalscorer Rodriguez said his fabulous goal had left him stunned - and added that he was confident Argentina could now overcome Germany in the quarter-final.

"That was incredible. A very beautiful goal. It was a really tough game, with Mexico making it very difficult for us but we came through in the end," he said.

"Now we are confident we can go further and beat anyone."