Lionel Messi was not messi-ng about tonight, as he impressed Argentina to a 3-0 victory over a disappointing Croatia aspect. It’s the most important win ever in a World Cup semifinal for a staff additionally protecting a clear sheet.
That end result didn’t appear to be on the playing cards in any respect early on, as Croatia managed proceedings with regular possession, their midfield and particularly Mateo Kovačić placing on an absolute present. For a staff that had barely given up any targets all through the match but additionally barely scored any (outdoors the sport in opposition to Canada), it was the right strategy, gameplan, and executing.
Mateo Kovacic vs Argentina:• Most Passes Accomplished (84)• Most Duels Gained (9)• Most Passes Into The Ultimate third (13)• Most Possibilities Created (3)• 8 Recoveries• 3/5 Dribbles Accomplished• 2/3 Tackles Gained• 3 Fouls WonAn unlucky finish to an excellent match. pic.twitter.com/ki8ALN8bMD— London Is Blue Podcast ⭐️⭐️ (@LondonBluePod) December 13, 2022
However whenever you play for tight margins, catastrophe can strike from only one mistake (see additionally: Chelsea). Towards the run of play simply previous the half-hour mark, a easy lengthy ball ahead resulted in goalkeeper Dominik Livaković conceding a penalty, which Messi hammered house unstoppably. Then, only a few minutes later, some panicked defending noticed Croatia concede a second on a one-man counter from Julian Álvarez. Lionel Messi turned on god-mode within the second half to ensure of the victory, establishing Álvarez for his second and Argentina’s third. 3-0. Sport, set, match.
Future now awaits Messi in opposition to both France or Morocco. However it appears written within the stars for him and Argentina.