Messi scores vs Australia to keep Argentina’s World Cup dream alive

Argentina beat Australia 2-1 in the Round of 16 stage of the FIFA World Cup 2022 to enter the quarterfinals. Australia has been knocked out of the tournament.

Lionel Messi opened the scoring for Argentina in what practically was the first big chance for his team in the entire match. In the second-half, Julian Alvarez scored the second goal for Argentina as struck home following a mistake by Australian goalkeeper Mathew Ryan.

Australia pulled one goal back deep into the second-half through an Enzo Fernadez own goal.

Despite Argentina’s firepower, Australia managed to keep them under a tight leash in the early part of the game. However, Messi breached the Australian defence in the 35th minute with his characteristic brilliance to score the first goal.

Messi moved swiftly from the right wing — a quick exchange of passes landed him inside the box before he unleashed a left-footed curling shot past goalkeeper Mat Ryan.

“I am very happy for taking another step forward, achieving another objective. It was a very strong and difficult match — we knew it was going to be this way,” Messi told ESPN.

ESPN cited Australia boss Graham Arnold as saying:  “He [Messi] is incredible. One of the greatest ever,” “We really worked hard not to be in awe of him, because of the great player he is. But wow, he’s remarkable.”