Argentina reached the quarterfinals of the FIFA World Cup as Lionel Messi proved instrumental again, scoring a well-placed goal in their 2-1 win against Australia on Saturday.
Lionel Messi marked his 1,000th senior appearance with the opening goal as Argentina booked their place in the World Cup quarter-finals by beating Australia 2-1.
Messi produced the first moment of quality to break the deadlock towards the end of the first half and Julian Alvarez pounced on a goalkeeping error to put two-time world champions Argentina in full control early in the second.
Australia went down fighting at the Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium and ensured an anxious finale after Craig Goodwin’s deflected shot reduced the deficit.
It was his 789th career goal, his 94th in 169 senior appearances for his country and his first in the World Cup knockout stages.
Argentina will now face the Netherlands in a highly anticipated battle to see who progresses to the Semi-finals.
Mustapha Hadji – Ahotor Sports Desk
