Superstar Lionel Messi broke the stalemate for defending champions as Argentine led Cote d'Ivoire 1-0 at halftime of a Group A match at 2008 Beijing Olympics men's soccer tournament?on Thursday.

The game started with unimaginable tempo as both sides were determined to attack. The young elephants showed their bravery and strength with some glistering skills and quick movements.

Lionel Messi echoed for passing Maestro Juan Riquelme's 43-minute clinical through ball from the half line and beat the Ivorian keeper Vincent Angban calmly with a low shot into the net.

The Ivorians actually took some advantage in the first 45 minutes, but squandered several clear chances to score.

(Xinhua News Agency August 7, 2008)