Lionel Messi inspired Argentina to victory over the Netherlands, directly contributing to both his side’s goals, setting up a FIFA World Cup (WC) Semi-Final clash with 2018 finalists Croatia.
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Louis van Gaal was in charge of the Netherlands the last time these two sides met in the 2014 WC Semi-Finals, losing on penalties after a goalless draw, and given the uneventful start to proceedings here, another shoot-out looked entirely possible.
Messi picked up the ball in the final third and played an exquisite no-look pass to slip in right wing-back Nahuel Molina, who poked low past Noppert.
The stadium announcer was kept busy during the final minutes of the half after a flurry of yellow cards, while Emiliano Martínez remained untested in the Albicelestes’ goal.
Van Gaal’s side weathered a late storm of Argentine chances, having the post to thank for denying Enzo Fernández in the final minute, sending the game to a penalty shoot-out.
However, Lautaro Martínez stepped up to bury the pivotal spot-kick to send Argentina to the semi-finals where they will meet Croatia for the first time since their 3-0 dismantling in the 2018 WC group stage.
