Four star Batistuta in form

ARGENTINA'S Gabriel Batistuta lived up to his billing as 'Batigol' by smashing four goals in 34 minutes as his side continued their World Cup preparations with a 5-1 win over Japanese J-League champions Kashima Antlers.

Gustavo Lopez impressed linking up with Batistuta and set up each of his goals, as Marcelo Bielsa's squad selection seemed justified.

Bielsa prefers to play with one striker and two forwards either side and although Kashima did well in the first half, they fell apart in the second 45 minutes.

Mauricio Pochettino opened the scoring in the seventh minute as the visitors strolled around the park.

Despite creating a number of chances, Argentina were shocked when their hosts equalised in the 47th minute when Takuya Nozawa fired home from the edge of the box.

However, Lopez soon gave his side the initiative when he crossed for Batistuta to head home from close range.

Batistuta made it 3-1 on the hour, smashing the ball into the top corner in an impressive display of finishing.

Another two goals completed an outstanding display from the Roma striker and Bielsa will be well pleased with a good squad showing.