Wednesday’s 2-0 victory over Poland by Argentina, led by Alexis Mac Allister and Julian Alvarez of Manchester City, secured their participation in the round of 16 of the World Cup in Qatar.
Argentina dominated from the beginning of the pivotal Group A match against the Poles. But in the first half, the tenacious Poland consistently prevented them from scoring.
The VAR referral resulted in a penalty for Argentina, giving them their best opportunity of the first half.
However, the Poland goalie made a spectacular stop on Lionel Messi’s penalty kick.
Argentina began the second half with the same attacking zeal as the first, with the score still locked at 0-0.
And they eventually broke the tie when Mac Allister scored after making a lovely move to the right.
After being buoyed by the first goal, Argentina continued to exert pressure. And after another fluid play down the right flank, Alvarez fired an unstoppable right footer into the goal.
After a series of fluid passes, midfielder Alexis MacAllister gave Argentina the lead right away. In the 67th minute, Julian Alvarez added a second goal by shooting past Poland goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny.
Szczesny was Poland’s hero in the opening period as he saved Messi from being given a penalty after his outstretched palm made contact with the Argentine striker’s face.
Argentina, who were defeated by Saudi Arabia in the opening game, had their best performance of the competition. Also, had more goals possible but for some missed opportunities.
After their outstanding performance against Poland 2-0, Argentina, who will play Australia in the next round, will be brimming with confidence.