Argentina survived a late comeback to advance to the quarter-finals of the FIFA World Cup after beating Australia 2-1 at the Ahmad bin Ali Stadium. Lionel Messi marked his 1000th appearance of his career with a goal to keep his World Cup glory dream alive.
Messi’s moment of magic came in the 35th-minute when he curved the ball into the bottom corner to to give the Albicelestes the lead. Julian Alvarez doubled their lead after the break in the 57th-minute but Enzo Fernandez own goal in the 77’th minute gave the Socceroos hope and determination to make it square but all in vain.
However, Netherlands had easily passed in a 3-1 thrilling comfortable victory against the United States of America at Khalifa International Stadium, extending their impressive unbeaten run to 19 matches.
Inter Milan’s right back Denzel Dumfries, with a man of a match performance assisted Memphis Depay and Dally Blind in the 10th and 45th minute respectively to give the Oranje at 2-0 lead at the break. Wright Haji pulled one back for the Americans but Dumfries effort left America’s Turner just watching.
Argentina will take on the Netherlands on Friday 9, Dec, at Lusail stadium on the quarter finals.
Today, the second round of the round of 16 is taking place as France the reigning champions take on Poland, and Southgate’s Lions, England will take on AFCON champions Senegal