Argentina defeated Croatia 3-0 on Tuesday to advance to the 2022 FIFA World Cup championship game.
At the Lusail Stadium in Al Daayen, Argentina was given a penalty after Julian Alvarez was hauled down by Croatia goalie Dominik Livakovic.
In the 34th minute, Lionel Messi successfully converted the penalty kick.
After five minutes, Argentina increased their lead by doubling it thanks to a close-range goal from striker Alvarez.
The Albiceleste won 2-0 in the opening period.
Messi evaded the Croatian defenders in the 69th minute and found Alvarez nearby.
In the penalty area, Alvarez beat Livakovic with a right-footed shot to make it 3-0.
In the meantime, Mario Mandzukic, Croatia’s assistant coach, received a straight red card in the 35th minute.
With 11 goals at the World Cup, Messi surpassed the legendary Gabriel Batistuta to become Argentina’s all-time leading scorer.
Argentina will take on the winner of the contest between France and Morocco. On Sunday, the championship game will take held at Lusail Stadium.
Messi won his way into his second World Cup championship with this outcome.
Argentina lost to Germany 1-0 in the 2014 World Cup final, Messi’s team suffering a defeat.