Argentina completed a turnaround from a shock World Cup defeat to Saudi Arabia by qualifying for the last 16 in impressive fashion against Poland – who went through on goal difference after being level on points with Mexico.
Lionel Messi was the catalyst for the crucial win over Mexico that got Argentina’s campaign back on track, and he was once again instrumental as he made it clear he needed to set up a second-round match against Australia. Why is considered one of the tournament favorites for
Poland were poised to progress due to FIFA Fair Play rules due to having fewer yellow cards than Mexico – until Saudi Arabia pulled one back in stoppage time after losing 2-1 to the CONCAF side. took This meant that goal difference was decisive for Poland, who next face France.
Argentina ran out comfortable winners with second-half goals from Brighton’s Alexis McAllister and Manchester City striker Julian Alvarez, but the game was still full of real drama and danger in the closing stages as Poland knew Another goal conceded, or another goal for Mexico against the Saudis. , will send them out on scoring.
Argentina dominated throughout but had to wait until after the second half to find the breakthrough as Messi had a first-half penalty saved by Poland keeper Wojciech Szczesny after the pair collided in an aerial challenge, video assistant referee A strict award after consultation.
McAllister gave Argentina the lead they deserved when he swept home Nahol Molina’s cross a minute after the break and Alvarez sealed victory with a fine finish into the top corner in the 67th minute.
Impressive Argentine show class
Argentina continued to improve as they produced their best World Cup performance to outclass a disappointing Poland.
Argentina shook off the shock of a stunning loss to Saudi Arabia to steady their nerves with a Messi-inspired win over Mexico and then stepped up another level to secure a last-16 berth against Australia. .
Messi’s first-half penalty miss was a minor obstacle to their victory as they had complete command of territory and possession against a passive Poland, especially given what was at stake.
Argentina keeper Amy Martinez didn’t have a moment to worry and the game was effectively over once McAllister put them in front, Alvarez confirming it with a brilliant strike of his own past the brilliant Szczecny. Indicated full capacity.
Messi was at his best but it was a complete performance from Argentina who played with more intensity and fire than ever before.
They have taken their time to show why they are so highly regarded but they have produced enough evidence here to show just how dangerous they will be in the knockout stages.
Dysfunctional Poland riding on its own fate.
It was a sign of Poland’s lackluster performance that their biggest display of passion all night came after the game ended when they punched the air to herald Saudi Arabia’s goal against Mexico that sealed the final. Confirmed his place in 16.
Poland’s players rejoiced at the good news as they waved red and white flags on the pitch, barely able to believe they were about to face France.
They can count themselves lucky to be there after a poor performance in which they never troubled Argentina and great striker Robert Lewandowski didn’t get any service worthy of the name.
The one exception to the mediocre fare from the rest of his teammates was former Arsenal goalkeeper Szczesny, who was superb throughout, saving Messi’s penalty and producing other stops in a flawless display.
Poland have come through and enjoyed their celebrations but will need to step up several levels to trouble France.
