Argentina beat Netherlands: Argentina continued their WC 2022 journey as they beat Netherlands 4-3 on penalties to seal their place in the Semi-Finals.
This after an enthralling 2-2 score-line in regulation time where Molina and Messi scored for La Albiceleste while Weghorst struck a brace for Netherlands.
FIRST HALF
It was a closely fought affair since the start as both teams went for in search of early goals.
However, Molina broke the deadlock in the 35th minute when he latched onto a delicious, decisive Messi pass before stabbing past Noppert.
5 – Lionel Messi has assisted five goals in the World Cup knockout stages – since Opta have World Cup assists (from 1966), this is the most on record in the knockout rounds of the finals, surpassing Pelé’s four. Goat. pic.twitter.com/ScHbh5oj1b
— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) December 9, 2022
Argentina took control of the game and made the Dutch run hell for leather but without much luck.
SECOND HALF
The South American side thought they had won it but Weghorst managed to pull one back with a smart header from Berghuis’ deep cross.
Weghorst equalized in the last minute of additional time with a smart finish from a well constructed free-kick.
Koopmeiners rolled the ball to the Besiktas forward instead of the usual, before Weghorst took a touch and slotted past Martinez for 2-2.
2 – Wout Weghorst has become the first ever substitute to score twice in a World Cup match for Netherlands. His equaliser was timed at 100:30 – the latest second half goal in a World Cup knockout stage game since Opta have exact goal times (from 1966). Saviour. pic.twitter.com/3oKSPTXoQU
— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) December 9, 2022
There wasn’t much in terms of extra time despite a late effort from Enzo Fernandez which smacked the post. Both teams kept having a go but not enough to trouble either keepers.
The thrill, madness of the contest and spirit was visible for one and all as it brought the clash to penalties in order to decide the winner.
PENALTY SHOOTOUT
Martinez became Argentina’s hero in the shootout as he made 2 impressive saves of Van Dijk and Berghuis to ensure they qualify.
Netherlands struck thrice while Argentina scored 4 of their 5 goals with Fernandez missing the only one.
However, it was enough for Argentina as they beat Netherlands 4-3 on spot-kicks to set up a clash with Croatia in the semi-final on Tuesday at Lusail Stadium.
ARGENTINA DEFEAT NETHERLANDS ON PENALTIES
TWO. MORE. WINS 🇦🇷 pic.twitter.com/nzLroOD9YG
— B/R Football (@brfootball) December 9, 2022
