Lionel Messi-led Argentina defeated Croatia 3-0 to reach the finals of the 2022 World Cup. This is the best margin by which Argentina has beaten any opponent in the knockout stage of a World Cup.
Their previous best came in 2010 when they defeated Mexico with a 3-1 scoreline.
Croatia began well and dominated possession and were sharp on strategy in the game’s opening salvo. As the clock struck 32 minutes, Argentina was a tad lucky to be awarded a penalty as Alvarez was clear through and the Croatian goalkeeper was trying to put his body across the line but it was ruled against them. Messi fired a clean hit to become the highest goal scorer in Argentina World Cup history.
Messi had breathed life into his squad and they looked energized and were raiding past the strong Croatian midfield. Something had to give. Argentina counter, and at 40 minutes double their lead with a wonder goal from Alvarez. Messi thinks he’s been fouled in the centre circle, but the ball breaks to Alvarez. Alvarez dribbles down the middle, De Paul and Molina swarm around, confusing the defenders. Alvarez keeps advancing, enters the box, gets a slightly lucky break off Juranovic, then another off Sosa, and pokes past Livakovic. At the break Argentina went 2-0 up.
Croatia entered the second half with replacements to break the game with a different combination and the 20 or so minutes are fascinating as both teams try to attack from either side. A quick goal by Croatia could bring them back into the game but there aren’t too many chances being created.
And then the game is sealed in the 69th minute. Guardian live reports: “This is simply magnificent from Lionel Messi! He tears down the right wing, out on the touchline. He’s got Gvardiol stuck to his side. No matter! He drifts infield to the edge of the box, then grinds to a halt. He turns, his back to goal. He then spins Gvardiol to reach the byline, cutting back for Alvarez, who can’t miss from six yards. Assist of the World Cup, right there!”
And then it all erupts into: Messi, Messi, Messi.
