CNN
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Argentina and Lionel Messi’s hopes of winning world Cup He is still alive after the stunning penalty shootout victory over the Netherlands in a thrilling match at Qatar 2022.
The Netherlands took a 2-0 lead with just eight minutes remaining thanks to goals from Nahuel Molina and Messi, as the Dutch pulled off a stunning comeback as Wout Weghorst’s brace ensured the match went to extra time.
With neither side able to find a winner in those extra 30 minutes, the match was decided in a penalty shootout and Argentina goalkeeper Aimee Martinez made himself the hero of the match. not albicelesti, Saving two Dutch penalty kicks.
Martinez made a name for himself as a penalty expert, making three saves in last year’s Copa America semi-final against Colombia, and cementing his status as Argentine hero in Qatar.
After Enzo Fernandez missed the first penalty that would have given Argentina victory, Lautaro MartÃnez stepped up and took the winning penalty to send thousands of Argentine fans inside Lusail Stadium into a delirium.
The Argentine players remained off the field long after the penalty shootout ended, much to the delight of their adoring fans who will no doubt be celebrating away in Qatar.
It was another great ending to a match in this World Cup, which had all sorts of bumps and comebacks, though this one probably outdid them all.
Certainly adding to the drama was Spanish referee Mateo Lahoz, known for his eccentricity and enjoyment of the limelight, handing out several yellow cards, including one in a penalty shoot-out, as he struggled to control the match.
There were no fewer than three mass brawls during the 120-minute penalty shootout, the first sparked by Leandro Paredes hitting a volley directly into the Dutch dugout on the side of the pitch.
This match will undoubtedly become a World Cup classic, but Argentina will quickly need to get themselves back on the ground ahead of their semi-final clash against specialist knockout Croatia.
Millions of Argentines dream of the day Messi emulates the late Diego Maradona and lifts the World Cup. This day is now one step closer.
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