2022 World Cup: Argentina dismantle Poland to top the table and qualify for the Round of 16

(Football news) Argentina had to defeat Poland to make it to the Round of 16 and they did exactly that in emphatic fashion. Poland were completely outplayed especially in the 2nd half and were lucky to have made it to the next round. From the very first minute Argentina were dictating play and putting relentless pressure on Poland. In the 38th minute goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny attempted to punch a cross away but instead caught Lionel Messi on the face. The referee controversially pointed to the spot but Szczesny made an incredible save to deny Messi. This was the Juventus shot stopper\’s 2nd save of the tournament and it helped Poland end the first half unscathed.

Argentina started the 2nd half on fire as Nahuel Molina assisted Alexis Mac Allister just after the restart. In the 67th minute Julian Alvarez scored a 2nd to put Argentina in the Round of 16. At this time Mexico were beating Saudi Arabia 2-0 therefore both the teams were equal on points, goal difference, head to head and goals scored. Poland were ahead because Mexico had more yellow cards and they needed to not concede another and hope that Mexico didn\’t score. Luckily for Poland, Mexico ended up conceding and they held on to make sure Argentina only won 2-0.

Had Mexico scored at the end to make it 3-1, they would\’ve gone through by equalling the GD and having scored more goals. Poland were well and truly destroyed as they never looked like scoring. Czesław Michniewicz\’s side were maintaining a low block and rarely got a chance to attack. Whenever they did attack, the Argentine defense crowded the forwards or fouled them. Poland ended the match with no shots on target which isn\’t a good sign as their next game is against France. Argentina are now heavy favorites against Australia in the Round of 16.

Also read: 2022 World Cup: Tunisia stun France and almost qualify for the Round of 16