Lionel Messi-led Argentina became the second team to book a semi-final spot in Qatar 2022 after securing a win over the Netherlands with a 4-3 win on penalties.
Nahuel Molina provided the breakthrough for the Albiceleste in the 35th minute, finishing off a beautiful Messi assist. The Little Magician then converted a penalty in the 73rd minute after Denzel Dumpries' mistimed challenge, that almost sealed the fate for Lionel Scaloni's men. However, super sub Wout Weghorst's late brace kept Dutch hopes alive and took the match to extra-time.
With both teams squared at 2-2 at the end of 120 minutes, Emiliano Martinez outshined for the South Americans, denying Virgil van Dijk and Steven Berghuis. Even though Teun Koopmeiners, Wout Weghorst and Luuk de Jong found the back of the net, the Netherlands were knocked out of this FIFA World Cup. Lionel Messi, Leandro Parades, Gonzalo Montiel, and Lautaro Martinez converted their spot-kicks to set up a semi-final date with Croatia.
