Arlington (Texas), Sep 9 (IANS): Two late strikes from superstars Sergio Aguero and Lionel Messi helped Argentina overturn a two-goal deficit to draw 2-2 against Mexico in an international friendly football match here.

Mexico went ahead courtesy of an 18th-minute penalty by Javier "Chicharito" Hernandez and doubled their advantage when Hector Herrera scored in the 70th minute at the AT&T Stadium.

But their defence was not able to hold on to the initiative.

Argentine substitute Sergio Aguero beat goalkeeper Moises Munoz in the 85th minute after Ezequiel Lavezzi essayed a cut-back pass from near the touchline.

The Mexican defence faltered, allowing Aguero to tap in from close range.

Messi then neatly controlled a lofted Aguero pass after running into the box and essayed a snapshot left-footed volley to equalise on 89 minutes.

For Mexico, the game was the final tune-up match before the CONCACAF Cup playoff against the United States on October 10.