Argentina vs Austria: Messi’s Double Strikes Send Argentina to Round of 16 at 2022 World Cup
Argentina advanced to the Round of 16 at the 2022 FIFA World Cup after Lionel Messi scored twice to lead a 2-1 victory over Austria in a Group H match at Al Janoub Stadium in Al Wakrah, Qatar. The win secured Argentina’s spot in the knockout stage as the group’s top seed, while Austria’s elimination was confirmed after a 0-0 draw with Mexico earlier in the tournament.
Messi’s Late Heroics Seal Argentina’s Fate
Messi, who had been largely subdued in Argentina’s previous two group-stage matches, became the focal point in the 88th minute when he converted a penalty after Marco Arnautović’s handball in the box. The Argentine captain then sealed the win in stoppage time with a close-range finish after a quick counterattack.
“This was a game where every minute mattered,” said Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni, who had rested key players like Julián Álvarez and Enzo Fernández in the previous match. “Messi’s leadership was crucial, but the team fought for every point. We needed this win, and they delivered.”
Austria, who had drawn 1-1 with Saudi Arabia in their opening match, entered the game needing a win to advance. However, their efforts were stifled by Argentina’s defensive organization, particularly the partnership between Emiliano Martínez and Nahuel Molina in goal.
Turning Points: How Argentina Took Control
The match was a physical battle, with Austria dominating possession early but struggling to break down Argentina’s midfield. Two moments shifted the momentum:
- 32nd minute: Argentina nearly took the lead when Messi’s shot was saved by Austria’s David Alaba, but the rebound fell to Julián Álvarez, whose header was cleared off the line.
- 65th minute: Argentina’s first clear chance came when Messi’s low cross was headed onto the post by Lautaro Martínez, forcing Alaba into a crucial save.
- 88th minute (penalty): After a tussle in the box, referee Szymon Marciniak pointed to the spot. Messi stepped up and slotted the ball into the top corner, sparking celebrations from the Argentine players and fans.
- 90+4th minute (winner): A quick Argentina counter saw Messi receive the ball in the final seconds, nutmeg a defender, and slot home his second goal.
“The penalty was a turning point, but the team never stopped believing,” said Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes. “We knew we had to create chances, and Messi was always there to make the difference.”
Numbers That Explain the Win: Argentina’s Efficiency vs. Austria’s Struggles
Despite Austria’s 62% possession advantage, Argentina’s attacking efficiency was the deciding factor. Here’s how the numbers broke down:
| Metric | Argentina | Austria |
|---|---|---|
| Shots on Target | 3 | 1 |
| Corners | 3 | 5 |
| Fouls Committed | 12 | 18 |
| Yellow Cards | 1 | 2 |
| Key Passes | 4 | 2 |
Austria’s defensive frailties were exposed by Argentina’s set-piece routine. According to FIFA’s official match report, Argentina won 6 of their 9 corners, while Austria failed to capitalize on their numerical advantage in the midfield.
Scaloni’s Gamble Pays Off: How Argentina Adjusted Mid-Game
Argentina’s victory was built on two tactical shifts made by Scaloni:
- Midfield Reinforcement: With Argentina struggling to break down Austria’s defense, Scaloni brought on Rodrigo De Paul in the 68th minute to add width and creativity. De Paul’s arrival allowed Messi to drop deeper and link play more effectively.
- Pressing Triggers: After the penalty, Argentina intensified their high pressing, forcing Austria into long balls that often fell to Martínez or Messi. This shift created the space for the winning goal.
Austria, meanwhile, failed to implement their intended 4-3-3 formation effectively. “We were too passive in the first half,” admitted Austria coach Franco Foda. “We needed to be more aggressive, but the physicality of Argentina’s midfield was overwhelming.”
Reaction from the Stands: A Night of Relief and Celebration
Al Janoub Stadium erupted as Messi scored his second goal, with Argentine fans singing “¡Vamos, Argentina!” in unison. The atmosphere was electric, particularly after the penalty, when the stadium lights flickered in celebration—a rare occurrence in World Cup matches.
Messi’s double sends Argentina to the Round of 16! 🇦🇷🔥 #WorldCupQatar
Austria’s fans, though disappointed, showed sportsmanship by applauding Argentina’s players as they left the pitch. “It’s a tough loss, but we’ll take pride in how we fought,” said Austria captain David Alaba.
Messi’s 13th World Cup Goal: A Record in the Making
With his two goals against Austria, Messi extended his World Cup goal-scoring record to 13, surpassing the previous mark of 12 held by Ronaldo and Gerd Müller. This achievement cemented his status as the tournament’s top scorer and the all-time leading scorer in World Cup history.
“This is a special moment for me and for Argentine football,” Messi said after the match. “I’ve dreamed of playing in the knockout stages for so long, and now we’re one step closer to making history.”
Argentina’s advance to the Round of 16 also sets up a potential rematch with France, who defeated them in the 2018 World Cup final. If Argentina were to face France again, it would be the first time in World Cup history that two teams have met in consecutive tournaments.
Why This Win Matters for Argentina’s World Cup Campaign
- Knockout Stage Confirmed: Argentina’s victory ensures their place in the Round of 16, where they will face Poland. This is Argentina’s first World Cup appearance since 2018, and their first knockout-stage match since the 2014 quarter-finals.
- Messi’s Leadership: Messi’s two goals and his influence on the pitch were decisive. His ability to deliver in clutch moments has been a recurring theme in Argentina’s campaign, reinforcing his status as the team’s focal point.
- Defensive Solidity: Argentina’s backline, particularly Martínez and Molina, was impervious to Austria’s attacks. This defensive resilience will be crucial in the knockout stages, where every mistake can be costly.
- Scaloni’s Adaptability: The manager’s mid-game adjustments—bringing on De Paul and shifting to a more aggressive pressing style—proved decisive. This tactical flexibility will be tested in the Round of 16.
- Austria’s Elimination: Austria’s early exit from the tournament means they will not be competing for a third consecutive World Cup. Their campaign was marked by defensive struggles and a lack of creativity in attack.
Frequently Asked Questions About Argentina’s Advance
When and where is Argentina’s next match?
Argentina will face Poland in the Round of 16 on at the Al Thumama Stadium in Doha.
How did Argentina qualify for the knockout stage?
Argentina finished top of Group H with 7 points (two wins and one draw), securing their place in the Round of 16. Their win over Austria was the decisive match, as they had already advanced on goal difference after a 2-2 draw with Mexico.
What is Argentina’s record in the World Cup knockout stages?
Argentina has reached the Round of 16 in 10 of their 19 World Cup appearances. Their most recent knockout-stage appearance was in 2014, when they were eliminated in the quarter-finals by the Netherlands.
Who will referee Argentina vs. Poland?
The match will be refereed by Daniele Orsato, an Italian referee who has officiated in previous World Cup matches, including the 2018 final.
Follow the Story: How to Stay Updated
For real-time updates on Argentina’s World Cup campaign, follow FIFA’s official tournament page or check back with Archysport for live coverage of Argentina’s Round of 16 match against Poland.
Share your thoughts on Argentina’s victory and what to expect next in the comments below.
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