Lionel Messi & Julian Alvarez were the stars for Argentina as the South American side thumped 2018 finalists 3-0 to reach the final of the FIFA World Cup.
The partnership between Messi & Alvarez wreaked havoc on Luka Madrid’s men. First, it was Messi who fired Argentina in front with yet another penalty after Julian Alvarez was adjudged to have been fouled by the Croatian goalkeeper.
The 34th minute goal saw Messi become Argentina’s highest goal-scorer in FIFA World Cup history with 11 goals, one more than Gabriel Batistuta’s 10.
Julian Alvarez then doubled the lead five minutes later, with a brilliant solo run which started with a pass from Lionel Messi. While Croatia tried throwing the kitchen sink in the second half, it was all but over when Argentina inflicted more pain with a third goal - a sensational assist from Messi setting up Julian Alvarez once again.
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Messi & Argentina are now one victory away from the ultimate glory, and while they don't know who they'll be facing yet, the South Americans will be hoping for another stellar display come Sunday.