Two goals from striker Julián Álvarez and a penalty from Lionel Messi earned Argentina a 3-0 win over Croatia in the first World Cup semi-final in Qatar on Tuesday, qualifying the Argentines for a meeting with France or Morocco in the big decider on Sunday.
Messi put Argentina ahead with a 34th-minute penalty after goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic brought down Álvarez inside the penalty area after a lengthy throw-in for the striker.
Five minutes later, the Manchester City player sprinted 50 meters with the ball in control, maintaining control after two disputes with opponents, and hit the back of the net to extend the scoreboard.
Croatia, who had come from behind against Japan and Brazil on penalties in the previous two stages, tried to attack in the second half, but their fine passing failed to open any real holes in the determined Argentine defence.
Messi then shone on the pitch, demonstrating mesmerizing control of the ball to carry it to the backline and cross low for Álvarez to score the third, in the 24th minute of the finals, sealing the victory and securing a place in the final.
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Source: Terra
Camila Luna is a writer at Gossipify, where she covers the latest movies and television series. With a passion for all things entertainment, Camila brings her unique perspective to her writing and offers readers an inside look at the industry. Camila is a graduate from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) with a degree in English and is also a avid movie watcher.
