By: FPJ Web Desk | December 04, 2022
Lionel Messi spearheaded Argentina's charge to the World Cup quarterfinals by helping to secure a 2-1 victory against Australia
In his 1,000th career match, Messi scored the opening goal with a sublime effort
Julian Alvarez double the scoring in the second half to set up a quarterfinal tie against the Dutch and knock Australia out of the tournament
Socceroos were unable to build upon their fortuitous own goal in the 77th minute
Despite Argentina's firepower, Australia managed to limit the early proceedings
Socceroos' defence was breached on 35 minutes as Messi showed his undeniable quality to score his first-ever goal in the World Cup knockout stage
For Australia’s squad of unheralded players, it proved to be a match too tough as the team exceeded expectations by reaching the knockout stage
Argentina fans bounced, swayed and twirled their scarves in joyous celebration at full time
The widely predicted result sets up a salivating quarter-final match between Argentina and the Netherlands on Friday