The Napoli striker had failed to net in six games for the Albiceleste, but was thrilled to end that streak with the winner in his side’s 1-0 victory over Belgium on Saturday

Argentina forward Gonzalo Higuain says he knew his poor patch in front of goal would come to an end after netting the winner in his side’s 1-0 quarter-final victory over Belgium on Saturday in the World Cup.

Higuain had struggled for the Albiceleste in their previous games in Brazil and had looked short of full fitness after recovering from injury just in time for the start of the tournament.

The 26-year-old had failed to convert in his last six appearances for Alejandro Sabella’s side, his worst-ever streak at international level, but fired home the all-important goal to send Argentina to the World Cup semi-finals for the first time since 1990.

“I was calm and relaxed,” he said after picking up his Man of the Match award. “I knew the goal would come and I was just doing my best for the team.”

And he added: “The goal finally came in an important match and that’s why I’m so emotional. It has been a long time since Argentina were in the semi-finals, so we have to enjoy it.

“We’ll keep taking things step by step.”