Julian Alvarez and Lionel Messi combined with a fluidity and continuity, which to the eye, looked as if it had been several years in the making Tuesday. In truth, it has.
The pair powered Argentina to a 3-0 victory over Croatia, ensuring La Albiceleste’s place in the final while denying the Balkan nation its second consecutive appearance.
Following their destructive display, an image of the duo surfaced on social media, with a 12-year-old baby-faced looking Alvarez snapped with Messi 10 years ago.
On Tuesday night the two almost single-handedly damned Croatia to the third-placed playoff.
Messi was at his magisterial best during the win, scoring the opening goal from the penalty spot – which Alvarez won.
The second goal, Alvarez’s first, was all the Manchester City star’s doing. He drove at the Croatia defense before a combination of good fortune and genius saw home stroke the ball past Dominik Livakovic.
Argentina’s third and final goal was a moment of Messi magic, finished off by Alvarez as the master and apprentice embraced behind the goal.
The latter made his international debut on June 3, 2021 in a World Cup qualifying match – almost sixteen years on from Messi’s.
Alvarez has four goals thus far at the tournament, while his globally-adored partner has five, along with three assists in Qatar.
Messi is currently atop the golden boot standings, equal with Kylian Mbappe and one ahead of Olivier Giroud – and Alvarez – of France, who have the opportunity to meet Argentina in Sunday’s final.
First they must take care of Morocco in the second semi-final in at Al Bayt Stadium in Al Khor.
