Argentina Demichelis and Palermo struck a late goal to beat for a 2-0 at the World Cup win over Greece top spot in the two-time world champions first place in Group B in South Africa on Tuesday 2010.
Argentina coach Diego Maradona said, ''We are doing our duty. We are defending the Argentine jersey, Mexico is not going to be easy, a very difficult opponent. But we are calm and we are going to receive Mexico with all the respect Mexico deserves.''
Demichelis scored from short range in the 77th minute after his header bounced off teammate Diego Milito and back into his path. Palermo doubled the score in the 89th from a rebound after Greece goalkeeper Alexandros Tzorvas saved a shot by Lionel Messi.
World Footballer of the Year Lionel Messi captained the two-time champions in the absence of midfielder Javier Mascherano as coach Diego Maradona made seven changes from the side that triumphed 4-1 against South Korea.
The South Americans gave a first start at the tournament to striker Diego Milito, whose two goals against Bayern Munich last month brought Inter Milan their first Champions League title in 45 years.
Argentina thrashed Greece 4-0 in the World Cup 16 years ago with Maradona among the scorers.
These close shaves were the signal for sustained pressure from the South Americans, whose goalkeeper Sergio Romero was a virtual spectator at chilly Peter Mokaba Stadium.
Greece finally showed some attacking intent when a superb lobbed pass from captain Giorgos Karagounis was just too long for Glasgow Celtic striker Giorgos Samaras to reach.
The second half followed a similar pattern with Argentina continually pressing only to be denied by a series of Tzorvas saves until Demichelis abandoned his defensive duties and turned scorer. Argentina will play Mexico in the round of 16 on Sunday, while Greece has been eliminated.