World Cup: Argentina in final, defeat Croatia 3-0 in semi final

Argentina’s dynamic duo of Messi and Alvarez prove too much firepower for Croatia in World Cup semis

Argentina defeated Croatia 3-0 in a dominating performance to secure the first spot in Sunday’s World Cup final.

The two Argentinian forwards — Julián Álvarez and Lionel Messi — were the difference makers for the sky blue in tonight’s match, playing an integral role in all three goals.

First, in the 34th minute, Álvarez was taken down inside the 18-yard box by goaltender Dominik Livaković. The ref whistled Livaković for a yellow card and awarded Argentina a penalty.

Unsurprisingly, it was Messi, playing in his fifth World Cup, who stepped up to the spot. The Argentina captain blasted it with his left foot into the top right corner to give his side the 1-0 lead.

Five minutes later, Álvarez pulled off an incredible individual effort to net one of the goals of the tournament.

After racing forward from the opposing end with the ball, he forced his way through the Croatian defense. His initial shot appeared to be blocked but Álvarez managed to get on the end of the rebound and will the ball into the back of the net to make it 2-0 going into halftime.

In the second half, Argentina searched for that third goal to put away Croatia. And it was Álvarez and Messi who delivered again.

In the 70th minute, Messi refused to relinquish possession, dribbling all the way to the opposition’s byline. He found Álvarez inside the box and the 22-year-old converted his second goal of the game and his fourth of the tournament.

Argentina will play the winner of tomorrow’s second semifinal between Morocco and France in the World Cup Final.