Despite a wild ricochet that handed Australia a late-game goal and seemed to ignite the team’s offense, Argentina fended off the Socceroos to nab a 2-1 win.
In the 35th minute, Lionel Messi scored his first-ever goal in the knockout rounds of the FIFA World Cup.
With the goal, 35-year-old Messi now moves past Diego Maradona (8) for second-most all-time for La Albiceleste at the World Cup. And he now only trails Gabriel Batistuta (10) for most all-time.
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The seven-time Ballon d’Or winner Messi also moves into a five-way tie in the World Cup Golden Boot race for the most goals scored in the tournament.
It was the Argentine star’s 1,000th career appearance in international and club matches.
This victory keeps the dream of a World Cup trophy alive for Messi in what is likely his last appearance in the tournament.
Argentina will next face Netherlands in the quarterfinals on Friday.
Source: CNN
