Lionel Messi and Julian Alvarez stunned Croatia in their World Cup semi-final clash as Argentina secured a 3-0 victory and a spot in the final. Messi and Alvarez were at the heart of a stinging quick fire double to put La Albiceleste two goals ahead before the break. The two forwards then combined once more in the second half, after a magnificent Messi run helped Alvarez to his second of the night. So, here’s our Argentina player ratings for their 3-0 victory over Croatia to put them into the final of the World Cup.
Argentina (4-4-2):
Emiliano Martinez – 7
Made a good stop to keep out a deflected cross by Josip Juranovic towards the end of the first forty five. Wasn’t troubled by a weak Croatia offense but did his job when called upon.
Nahuel Molina – 7
Wasn’t really troubled defensively in the first half and won his duels well. Also played an important role by joining Julian Alvarez in attack for the second goal.
Cristian Romero – 7
Looked good early on, putting in some good challenges. Booked in the second half for late tackle from behind.
Nicolas Otamendi – 7
Accurate in possession and wasn’t troubled at the back.
Nicolas Tagliafico – 7.5
Won some excellent tackles in the second half and helped lead a dangerous counter midway through it.
Rodrigo de Paul – 6
Looked fairly solid before being taken off in the second half.
Enzo Fernandez – 8
The youngster continued to impress here and was combative in the midfield. Linked up well with Messi in the box just before the hour mark.
Leandro Paredes – 7
Looked comfortable in possession and was tidy. Strong in his duels too.
Alexis Mac Allister – 7.5
Close to finding the third goal for Argentina with a header following a corner but was denied by an excellent save by Livakovic. Looked lively and also created a couple of chances.
Julian Alvarez – 9
Played a key role in Argentina’s victory here, scoring a brace and also was brought down in the box after getting in behind the Croatian defense to win the penalty. Made an excellent solo run to double Argentina’s lead, albeit he may have got a bit of fortune towards the end. Nonetheless, it was an excellent finish and he also scored Argentina’s third of the night, finishing off an excellent move by Messi. The 22-year-old has a bright future.
Lionel Messi – 10
Messi was truly at his best once again here and delivered an incredible performance to help Argentina reach the final. He rifled the ball home from the penalty spot to put Argentina in front in the first half and was creative and influential as always, leading the attack for his side. Was tricky and intricate as Croatia struggled to get anywhere near him and was also involved in the second goal too. Was a threat throughout and displayed excellent skill to get past Josko Gvardiol before finding Alvarez for his second. Phenomenal showing.