 |
| Lionel Messi Iconic Picture |
Argentina took the lead against the Netherlands in the 2022 World Cup semifinals thanks to an incredible assist from Lionel Messi.
In the 35th minute, the storied forward displayed yet another instance of individual brilliance to set up Nahuel Molina for the game's first goal.
After receiving possession of the ball, Messi drove at the Dutch defence, taking several touches before slipping Molina an inch-perfect pass.
Prior to Netherlands progressively entering the match, Argentina dominated possession for the first 15 minutes, pinning their opponents back .
Nahuel Molina and Lionel Messi's goals gave Argentina a chance to advance to the semi-finals, but Wout Weghorst scored two outstanding goals off the bench, including one in the tenth minute of second-half injury time, to keep the game alive under the most dramatic conditions.
A historic 2-2 draw at the Lusail Iconic Stadium saw Argentina advance to the World Cup 2022 semifinals on penalties, meaning the Netherlands' comeback effort was in fruitless.
Messi, who is expected to play in his final World Cup, was the centre of attention. In the 22nd minute, he took his first shot at goal, curling a long shot over Andries Noppert's crossbar.
 |
| Emiliano Martinez |
The extra 30 minutes were fruitless in terms of goals scored, but the Copa America champions maintained their composure from the penalty spot to win 4-3 in the shootout and advance to the Croatian team's semifinal.
Even though Argentina was under pressure after Enzo Fernandez's missed penalty kick, Lautaro Martinez's crucial contribution led to raucous celebrations after Messi's conversion.
Argentina's players and the large crowd at Lusail Stadium rejoiced even more as they realised how close they were to losing a comfortable position in this explosive World Cup quarterfinal.
Argentina has now qualified for the semifinals and will meet Croatia, which defeated Brazil in a stunning turn of events just like how it turned out for Argentina.