Football legend Lionel Messi dazzled and made the difference this Friday night, December 9, 2022, as Argentina oustruggled Netherlands to zoom into the semi-finals of the on-going World Cup in Qatar.

The Argentines dominated the match, going ahead in the 35th minute when Messi laid the ball for on-rushing Molina to stab home.

The serial best player in the world award winner extended the lead from the penalty spot in the 73rd minute. (He was to also score the first in the shootouts.)

Supersub Weghorst however gave the Dutch some hope when he reduced the tally in the 83rd minute when he headed in a cross from Berghuis.

He was to strike again 11 minutes into added time to even scores and force 30 minutes of extra time that failed to produce any goals.

In the ensuing penalty shootouts, goalkeeper Martinez proved to be the hero as he saved Netherlands’ first two kicks after Messi showed the way by scoring the first. Argentina eventually won 4-3 to set up a semi-final clash with Croatia, who hours earlier beat favourites Brazil 4-2 after the penalty kicks that followed a one-all draw after 120 minutes of grueling battle.