Argentina officially qualified for the knockout round of the World Cup on Wednesday, despite Lionel Messi stopping a scoring run. Instead, Alexis Mac Allister and Julian Alvarez scored the goals as Argentina beat Poland 2-0.
Messi failed to score a goal or assist in a game for his country for the first time in eight games. The star, however, had a great chance to score his 94th total goal for Argentina. Poland goalkeeper Wojciech Szczęsny collided with Messi in the 36th minute of the game after attempting to deflect the ball with a punch. While the penalty was not initially awarded, VAR intervened and asked the referee to review the incident.
Szczesny shines, despite the defeat
The referee awarded the penalty after reviewing the clash on the monitor. Messi then proceeded to take a rather tame penalty kick towards Szczęsny. Despite the eventual scoreline, the Polish goalkeeper was brilliant that night, particularly in the first half.
Szczęsny became the second goalkeeper since 1974 to save multiple penalties during regulation time at a World Cup. American Brad Friedel also previously saved two penalty kicks at the 2002 World Cup in South Korea.
Wednesday’s win propelled Argentina to the top of Group C. After suffering a heavy defeat in their opening game of the tournament, Argentina rallied to win their next two games. Poland, despite the loss, finished second in the group ahead of Mexico.
Messi needs help for Argentina to win the World Cup
Argentina will need performances like this if they are to collect the World Cup trophy. The team’s chances of potentially winning the tournament in Messi’s latest World Cup will improve dramatically if the support players increase.
Everyone in the world understands what Messi is capable of; however, he may not always be the savior. Wednesday’s victory could be a very promising omen for Argentine fans around the world.
Topping Group C means Argentina will face Australia on Saturday. Poland plays defending World Cup champions France the next day.
PHOTO: IMAGO/PA Images
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