Javier Mascherano: 'Lionel Messi needs our help'

Javier Mascherano has called on his Argentina teammates to give more help to Lionel Messi ahead of Wednesday's World Cup semi-final against the Netherlands.

Messi has been the key player for Alejandro Sabella's side during the tournament, but Mascherano believes that they cannot afford to rely on his Barcelona teammate as they look to reach the final for the first time since 1990.

"Leo has rescued us in a few matches but we can't just rely on him," the 30-year-old told FIFA.com. "The team should be there to support him just as we were against Belgium, when he controlled the game with everyone's help.

"That's what we're aiming for - even though we know we have great individual players, the team comes first."

Argentina have been handed a boost with the news that Robin van Persie is a doubt for Wednesday's game.