FIFA 2022
FIFA World Cup 2022, Match 50: Australia’s fight goes in vain as Argentina defeat them 2-1
It was Lionel Messi’s first knockout goal in any FIFA World Cup.
On 4 December 2022, Argentina locked horns with Australia in the ongoing FIFA World Cup. It was the second match of the Round of 16 that took place in Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium. Argentina managed to qualify from Group C by winning two out of their three games. After that shocking defeat against Saudi Arabia, they defeated Poland and Mexico to seal the top spot.
On the other hand, the Aussies managed to qualify for this knockout round after winning two out of their three games. They defeated Denmark and Tunisia in the group stage to seal the second spot behind the defending champion, France. So, fans were expecting to see a good match between these sides.
Argentina defeated Australia 2-1 in the FIFA World Cup 2022
Both teams had a steady start to the game. They were trying to create some chances to break the deadlock. But, the game was stuck as neither of the teams was able to penetrate the final third. But, in the 35th minute, Lionel Messi broke the deadlock for Argentina while Nicolas Otamendi assisted him. Thus, the first half ended 1-0.
He even managed to surpass Cristiano Ronaldo in terms of goals scored in Word Cups. Now, Lionel Messi has nine goals to his name in World Cups compared to Ronaldo’s eight goals. In the second half, Australia came out with an aim to level the match as quickly as possible. But, in the 57th minute, Julian Alvarez doubled the lead for Argentina.
In that buildup to the goal, Australia’s defender Kye Rowles came up with a poor back pass. Thus, Matt Ryan fell under pressure and Alvarez took the advantage to score that goal in an empty net. But, Australia managed to pull back a goal in the 77th minute. Craig Goodwin scored that goal against the run of play. It was a volleyed effort from 25 yards out. Then, in the 82nd minute, Australia were close to equalizing the game. Aziz Behich had an effort but Lisandro Martinez came up with a heroic block to deny him. After that, Argentina managed to hold the lead till the final whistle and the game ended 2-1 in favor of them.
