Lionel Messi, on Sunday, once again delivered when it mattered the most as he inspired Argentina to beat Australia and book a place in the quarterfinal of the ongoing 2022 FIFA World Cup.
It was a memorable game for the former Barcelona star as he was playing his 1000th professional game and 100th game as Argentina captain. And the Argentine superstar made the game even more memorable by coming up with a scintillating performance.
Playing his fifth FIFA World Cup, Lionel Messi finally scored his first ever World Cup knockout goal, helping Argentina register a 2-1 win over a stubborn Australia. Messi opened the scoring in the 35th minute with a brilliantly placed shot.
After the break, Julian Alvarez doubled the lead following a huge error from the Australian goalie. Towards the end, Australia pulled one goal back and gave their fancied hosts a mighty scare. Argentina, however, managed to hold on and take another step towards the World Cup glory.
Australia players fanboying over Lionel Messi:
While the Australian players gave it their all on the field, it did not take them long to leave the rivalry behind themselves once the game ended. A viral video has shown how several Australian players were fanboying over Lionel Messi once the game came to an end.
In the video, the players could be seen waiting for Messi to take photographs and the Argentina skipper duly obliged. One of the players could also be seen proudly flaunting the photograph he took with Messi.
Here is a clip of the same:
All the Australia players were fanboying over Lionel Messi after the match! 😂👏pic.twitter.com/7i7teRQZfq
— SPORTbible (@sportbible) December 4, 2022
Meanwhile, Argentina will lock horns against Netherlands in the quarterfinal. The game is scheduled to take place on Saturday (December 10). Netherlands booked their place in the quarterfinals with a convincing 3-1 win over USA.