Argentina 3-0 Croatia: Messi magic seals World Cup final spot

Argentina have advanced to the finals of the 2022 World Cup, defeating Croatia 3-0 in the semi-finals. Lionel Messi’s side were able to achieve a convincing win over the 2018 finalists, and have reached the climax of the tournament for the second time in three editions. 

Messi was at his free-flowing best, and earned his fourth man of the match award at the tournament. The Argentina skipper scored the opening goal from the penalty spot, and assisted Julian Alvarez’s second goal with a dazzling run from the right flank. 

Argentina progress to World Cup 2022 finals 

Croatia had dominated possession in the opening stages of the game, but were unable to create any chances. Against the run of play, Argentina were awarded a rather controversial penalty. Alvarez had got his shot away, while Livakovic tried to make himself as big as possible and stood his ground. 

But, the collision between the two resulted in a penalty, in a rather bizarre decision. Bourna Sosa was at fault for the second goal, spiffing a clearance after being forced to run backwards. Alvarez got lucky with two ricochets against defenders, and tapped the ball in from close range to beat the keeper. 

Croatia lacked the hunger and desire to come out and give Argentina a headache in the second half. And in time, Messi’s exceptional run from the centre line produced an assist for Alvarez’s second goal – putting an end to Croatian hopes for a second consecutive World Cup final. 

The Albiceleste will face the winner of France vs Morocco for the most coveted prize in football on December 18.