Doha: Argentina superior to the knockout phases of the World Cup with a 2-0 victory over Poland of their closing Group C match on Wednesday although skipper Lionel Messi noticed a primary half penalty saved at Stadium 974.
Argentina’s victory moved the South American aspect to the highest of the group and they’re going to face Australia within the last-16 whereas second-placed Poland tackle reigning champions France.
Argentina took the lead only one minute into the second half when Alexis Mac Allister obtained on the top of Nahuel Molina’s cross and, regardless of making weak contact, he noticed his shot creep over the road with Polish keeper Wojciech Szczesny overwhelmed.
The purpose was simply reward for Argentina who had dominated possession whereas Poland barely managed to get out of their very own half.
The second purpose was the results of some affected person buildup the place Argentina knocked the ball round earlier than Enzo Fernandez unlocked the defence with a through-ball for Julian Alvarez, who discovered house within the field and smashed it into the highest nook.
Earlier, Poland have been up in arms when Argentina have been awarded a controversial penalty after a VAR test for a foul on Messi when Szczesny’s glove brushed his face because the Paris St Germain ahead rose up for a header on the far submit.
Poland’s Wojciech Szczesny saves a penalty from Argentina’s Lionel Messi. Picture: Reuters/Jennifer Lorenzini
However Szczesny was as much as the duty and regardless of the hundreds of Argentina followers elevating the decibel ranges inside the world, he saved his composure and guessed accurately, diving to his left and utilizing one hand to swat apart Messi’s effort from the spot.
Szczesny had been saved busy all the half with the Poland defence breached repeatedly however the Juventus keeper stood agency to disclaim the Argentines who grew extra assured with each assault.
He first denied Alvarez when the Manchester Metropolis ahead broke by the offside entice earlier than he tipped Angel Di Maria’s cross over the bar when his Juve group mate tried to attain instantly from a nook kick.
However he may do nothing however scramble when Mac Allister took his shot even earlier than Poland may quiet down after the restart whereas Alvarez’s shot for the second purpose was too good for any keeper.