The Manchester United man marked his recall to the starting line-up in emphatic style, meeting fellow defender Gabriel Mercado’s cross with a superb volley four minutes from time to give Jorge Sampaoli’s side a 2-1 victory over Nigeria in a must-win game in Saint Petersburg.
Barcelona’s Lionel Messi had given Argentina a 14th-minute lead with a stunning finish from Ever Banega’s pass but it was cancelled out early in the second half by a penalty from Chelsea’s Victor Moses, after Javier Mascherano hauled Leon Balogun to the ground.
The South Americans, who were runners-up in 2014, were heading for a shock early exit before Rojo’s magnificent finish ensured they finished second in Group D behind Croatia.