A Julian Alvarez brace and Lionel Messi clinic inspired the Argentinians to a 3-0 victory over Croatia and reach the promised land. In light of an encouraging performance against Croatia, La Albiceleste shattered Croatian aspirations of once again reaching the World Cup Finals.
In the 33rd minute, a mistake by Luka Modric led to Enzo Fernandez picking out a witty run by Julian Alvarez who was brought down by Dominik Livakovic in the 18-yard box. Suffice it to say, Lionel Messi converted from the spot to put Argentina a goal ahead.
Less than six minutes later, Julian Alvarez enhanced their lead when he scored from a stellar run that started at the halfway line.
Argentina all but sealed their place in the Finals from what can only be classified as a moment of ‘Messi Magic’. The seven-time Ballon D’Or winner put highly touted center half Josko Gvardiol in a spin cycle before feeding Julian Alvarez on a silver platter for his second and Argentina’s third of the night respectively.
The night belonged to Messi and Argentina without a doubt.
Nonetheless, Luka Modric capped off an incredible international career and bid adieu to the Croatian faithful with a vibrant display. Unfortunately, it wasn’t enough as the 2018 World Cup finalists’ World Cup campaign has come to a close.
