Argentina v Australia Round of 16 Highlights
Lionel Messi Shines as Argentina Advances to Quarterfinals
Argentina Overcome Australia to Reach Last 8
Lionel Messi marked his 1000th career game with a goal as Argentina overcame a resolute Australia 2-1 in the last 16 of the World Cup on Saturday, setting up a quarterfinal clash against the Netherlands.
Argentina, who started the tournament with a shock defeat to Saudi Arabia, had struggled to get going in the knockout stages, but Messi's goal in the 35th minute settled their nerves.
Australia, who were playing in the knockout stages for the first time since 2006, equalised through Craig Goodwin in the 77th minute, but Argentina substitute Julian Alvarez restored their lead three minutes later.
Argentina held on in the closing stages to book their place in the last eight, where they will face the Netherlands on Friday.
Messi, who was making his 23rd World Cup appearance, was at the heart of Argentina's victory. He scored the opening goal with a low shot into the bottom corner and then played a key role in Alvarez's winner.
Australia, who had been the underdogs going into the match, gave a good account of themselves and will be disappointed not to have taken the game to extra time.
However, Argentina's quality ultimately proved too much and they will now be one of the favourites to win the tournament.
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