By Rahaman Abiola
In what did not come as a surprise, the Argentina vs Croatia tie ended in 3-0 defeat of the former World Cup finalist, thanks to a penalty from mercurian Lionel Messi and two gaols from Julián Álvarez.
The game started on a strong note with both teams showing strength, speed and counter-attack. It, however, took the brilliant effort of the Argentine captain and talisman to break the jinx in the 34 minutes as he slotted in a penalty after Croatian goalie Dominik Livaković committed a foul in the box.
22-year-old Álvarez would later torment the Lucas Modric side with a stunning finish in the 39 minutes before finally dashing the hope of the Croatians with another Messi-assisted goal in the 69 minute.
Meanwhile, here are the 4 takeaways from the game:
Messi closer to World Cup dream
Wihout any iota of doubt, Lionel Messi is probably the greatest player to ever grace the soccer field with an astonishing records for both clubs and country.
Messi, 35, who suffered a sad defeat to Germany in the 2014 final, is desperate to crown his trophy-laden career by winning his first World Cup and bringing Argentina a third title to add to those won in 1978 and 1986.
With a win over Croatia, the Argentine is a lap close to the trophy. If he eventually wins the trophy —- having won Copa America for his side, the debate over GOAT with Portuguese Critiano Ronaldo may not be needed in the future.
Messi still making history
Qatar 2022 World Cup is Messi’s fifth World Cup. And a goal in Croatia tie was his 5th goal of the tournament, making him joint top-scorer with France’s Kylian Mbappe. His 11th career goal – in a record-equalling 25th World Cup appearance – also took him past Gabriel Batistuta as Argentina’s all-time World Cup top scorer.
The 35-year-old ha been one of the most influential figures in his tournament. If he has a goal in the final, the Argentine will definitely be at the pinnacle of history.
End of an generation
The Qatar WC seems to be the last for some of the finest players of the 21st century. From Messi to Modric–37, the curtain appears to be falling on the big names who made impacts for their countries as football is concerned.
For Lucas Modric, the Real Madrid midfielder has raised his country flag higher more than any player in the history of Croatian national football team. He single-handedly motivated his country to 2018 World Cup finals against France in Russia.
The former Spurs man is one of the legends of the game who may, after this tournament, call the curtain off for their country.
4. Football in safe hands
This World Cup is the blend of old and young players. Footballers like Busayo Saka, Julian Alvaez, Jude Belligham, Jamal Musiala have already been making their respective countries proud at a young age.
With Alvarez’s double against Croatia, we’re seeing post-Messi era in the hands of finest talents.
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