Experience and youth combined to earn Argentina a 2-1 win over Australia and a last-16 date with the Netherlands at Qatar 2022.
Lionel Messi cannily broke the deadlock and Julian Alvarez double the lead before the hour.
The Socceroos nonetheless gripped on to their towel. From one assault on the Albiceleste goal, Craig Goodwin’s fierce hit took a huge deflection off Enzo Fernandez and halved the deficit. From another, Aziz Behich threatened to score a goal of the tournament contender.
That proved the Aussies’ last shot. They return Down Under having done themselves proud. The Argentinians, deserved winners overall, look ahead to a mouth-watering clash with the Netherlands.
Player of the Match
Lionel Messi
