Argentina set up a World Cup quarterfinal showdown with Germany on Sunday after defeating Mexico 3-1 in an entertaining second round clash at Soccer City Stadium.

Carlos Tevez scored twice - once clearly offside while Gonzalo Higuain capitalized on a defensive error to top the tournament goalscorers with four in four matches.

Mexico forward Javier Hernandez earned his side a consolation goal when he smashed a shot past Argentina goalkeeper Sergio Romero in the 71st minute.

Argentina went ahead on 26 minutes when Tevez headed into an empty net from close range after Lionel Messi had latched onto a loose ball toward goal. TV Replays showed Tevez to be offside, but Italian referee Roberto Rosetti allowed the goal to stand despite protests from the Mexicans.

Higuain then capitalized on a blunder by Mexico defender Ricardo Osorio who passed the ball straight to Higuain just outside the penalty box. The Argentinean striker calmly rounded goalkeeper Oscar Perez before slotting into an empty net in the 33rd.

Tevez arguably scored the goal of the tournament so far on 52 minutes by smashing an unstoppable shot into the top-right corner just outside the penalty area.