Argentina advances to the World Cup quarterfinals and defeats Australia thanks to Lionel Messi.
After helping Argentina defeat Australia 2-1 on Saturday, Lionel Messi led his team’s charge into the World Cup quarterfinals.
Messi scored the opening goal on his 1,000th career game with a magnificent effort, and the Socceroos were unable to capitalise on their fortunate late goal, which eliminated Australia from the tournament. Julian Alvarez then scored in the second half to set up a quarterfinal match against the Netherlands.
Australia was able to keep things from getting out of hand early on despite Argentina’s firepower, preventing either team from asserting any domination.
But after 35 minutes, Messi broke through the Socceroos’ defence, displaying his tremendous talent and scoring his first goal ever in the World Cup knockout rounds.
The Paris Saint-Germain forward began the play by slicing inside from the right wing; a fast exchange of passes brought him inside the box where he sent a left-footed curling effort past Mat Ryan.
Twelve minutes after halftime, Rodrigo De Paul capitalised on an error by Australia goalkeeper Ryan, giving Alvarez the opportunity to score twice for Argentina and tightening their hold on a quarterfinal position.
On the 72nd minute, Australia made three substitutions in a last-ditch effort by manager Graham Arnold, and they were given a lifeline when Enzo Fernandez’s own goal cut their deficit in half 13 minutes from time.
With a strong first-time shot that took a significant deflection off Fernandez and fooled goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez, Craig Goodwin pounced on a loose ball outside the box.
With newfound confidence, Aziz Behich nearly tied the score three minutes later when he went on a brilliant darting move and outran four Argentina players before being stopped by Lisandro Martinez in the penalty area.
Despite their best efforts, Australia’s outstanding World Cup journey came to an end since they were unable to mount a comeback.
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