Lionel Messi inspired Argentina to another fantastic victory as they turned over a spirited South Korean side by four goals to one.

Messi was slow to get going, but once he was in full flow, he showed the form that made him a champion and top goalscorer this season with Barcelona. Lionel is really making a statement in this World Cup that he is not dependent on Barcelona's Xavi and Iniesta. He is a great player in whatever team he is in.

It was an assist by Argentina's talismanic number 10, Messi, that gave them the lead on the 16th minute. Messi whipped in a dangerous free-kick which was turned into his own goal by Korea's Park.

Argentina were two up just after the half-hour mark. A sumptuous cross was flicked on to Gonzalo Higuain who made no mistake with his head after he was adjudged to be onside.

South Korea were given a lifeline right on the stroke of half time. A bad mistake from Demichelis was punished by Korea's Lee, who beat Romero with ease.

Argentina turned on the style in the second half and Messi once again was pulling the strings. Some fantastic dribbling led to Messi facing the goalkeeper who saved his first attempt. Messi hit the rebound against the post and Higuain had a simple tap in to get his second of the match.

Argentina got their fourth, Higuain's hat-trick goal, on the 80th minute. Messi sent a delicious lob over the Korea defense and substitute Sergio Aguero crossed the ball to Higuain who headed in across goal. It was Argentina at their best.

Argentina will be delighted with another three points and are now shaping up to be one of the most dangerous teams in the tournament, especially with Messi on such good form.