‘G.O.A.T for a reason’ – Fans go berserk after Lionel Messi scores his first knockout goal against Australia in World Cups

On 4 December 2022, Argentina took on 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. Lionel Messi’s Argentina came after sealing the top spot in their Group C. However, it was a nightmare of a start for Lionel Messi when they suffered a 2-1 loss in the tournament opener against Saudi Arabia.

Messi scored a penalty in that match. After that, Argentina managed to win their games against Mexico and Poland respectively. Lionel Messi came up with some huge contributions despite one penalty miss against Poland. However, all eyes were on him again as fans were hoping to see the Argentine superstar go all the way this time around.

Lionel Messi scored his first-ever knockout goal against Australia in FIFA World Cup 2022

Speaking of the match, it was Messi’s 100th professional match. However, Australia started the game steadily. Both teams were trying hard to score the opener. But, it was not enough for either team as both teams were failing to penetrate the final third. But, in the 35th minute, Argentia got the lead as Lionel Messi scored the opener. Nicolas Otamendi provided the assist. Messi hit the ball sweetly and his effort ended at the bottom-left corner to beat Australia’s goalkeeper Matt Ryan.

However, it was Messi’s first-ever goal in the knockout stage of a FIFA World Cup. Including this, he has played five FIFA World Cups so far. So, it was another feather to his crown and in his illustrative career. He even managed to surpass Cristiano Ronaldo in terms of goals scored in World Cups. Now, Lionel Messi has nine goals to his name in World Cups compared to Ronaldo’s eight goals. After watching such an achievement, fans went berserk as they came up and shared their views on social media platforms.

Here is how fans have reacted to the first knockout goal from Lionel Messi in World Cups: