FIFA 2022
FIFA World Cup, Match 61: Argentina qualify for final after defeating Croatia 3-0, Lionel Messi shines
Another goal and assist for the Argentine superstar, Lionel Messi.
Argentina locked horns with Croatia in the ongoing FIFA World Cup on 14 December 2022. It was the first semi-final of this tournament that took place in the Lusail Stadium. In the quarter-final, Argentina came victorious over the Netherlands in a penalty shootout.
Meanwhile, Croatia also registered a victory through a penalty shootout over Brazil. So, Fans were expecting eagerly to see another high-voltage clash between these sides. All eyes were on players like Lionel Messi and Luka Modric. However, in the 2018 FIFA World Cup, Croatia registered a thumping 3-0 victory over Lionel Messi’s side.
Argentia thrashed Croatia 3-0 in the FIFA World Cup 2022
Speaking of the match, Both teams had a decent start to the game as both were struggling to penetrate the final third. In the 25th minute, Argentina had a chance to open the scoring when Enzo Fernandez had a curling shot at the goal from the edge of the box. But, Croatia’s last match hero, their goalkeeper, Livakovic saved it with ease.
Then, in the 32nd minute, the referee awarded a controversial penalty to Argentina. However, Messi scored from the spot in the 34th minute and made it 1-0. Then, in the 39th minute, Julian Alvarez doubled the lead with a solo effort. Croatia’s defense was all over the place and the first half ended 2-0. In the second half, Croatia looked determined but again, they were failing to penetrate the final third. However, in the 58th minute, Messi managed a shot at the goal from 10 yards Out. But, Livakovic made no mistake as he saved it comfortably.
Then, in the 62nd minute, Lovren had two chances to score the first goal for Croatia when Modric delivered an in-swinging corner. But, Otamendi cleared it without taking any risk. In the 69th minute, Julian Alvarez scored the third goal while Messi came up with an assist. It was a dazzling ball into the box which Alvarez did not make any mistake to convert into a goal. After that, no such significant chances were created as the game ended 3-0 in favor of Argentina.
