An old photo of Lionel Messi with Julián Álvarez circulates on social networks. Messi and Álvarez played a key role in Argentina’s qualification for the 2022 FIFA World Cup final by defeating Croatia 3-0 in the semi-final tie at Lusail Stadium on Tuesday.
Álvarez won the penalty during the 34th minute of the game, which was expertly converted by Lionel Messi. The Manchester City attacker doubled La Albiceleste’s lead six minutes from the final half-time whistle, and added one more to his tally in the 69th minute of the game.
An old photo of Lionel Messi and Julián Álvarez has gone viral
A photo from a decade ago of Julián Álvarez and Lionel Messi has gone viral on social media. Popular journalist Fabrizio Romano posted a photo on Twitter of him, stating that Álvarez was only 12 years old when the photo was taken.
Now, 10 years later, both players were on fire when Argentina defeated Croatia 3-0. Soccer fans around the world have gone crazy over the details of the photo.
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Julián Álvarez joined Manchester City from River Plate in the January 2022 transfer window. He spent the second half of last season with the Argentine club before joining the Cityzens squad at the start of the current season.
Álvarez has played 20 games (in all competitions) for the Cityzens so far, registering seven goals and two assists. He won the Etihad Player of the Month award for November 2022.
The 22-year-old forward is also enjoying a dream FIFA World Cup campaign with Argentina’s World Cup squad. He has registered four goals and one assist in six appearances for Qatar.
Lionel Scaloni on Argentina’s victory in the semifinals
Argentine coach Lionel Scaloni admitted that it was difficult not to be carried away by his team’s victory over Croatia.
Speaking to the media, he said: “We celebrate because it is exciting to be in the final, but there is still a step to go. This is something to enjoy, but it’s over now, so we need to move on to the next one.”
Read more: Lionel Messi to retire, with the FIFA World Cup final his last game for Argentina
He will now lead his team against the winner of the Morocco vs. France match in the final at Lusail Stadium on December 18. Argentine captain Lionel Messi is expected to announce his retirement from international soccer after the match. Paris Saint-Germain will be looking to end his playing career with Argentina on a high note.
