Xtra Time Web Desk: Two-time former champions Argentina cruised into the pre-quarter finals of the FIFA World Cup 2022. The Albiceleste defeated Poland 2-0 in the Group C clash at Stadium 974 on Wednesday night. Alexis Mac Allister (46′) and Julian Álvarez (67′) were on target for Argentina. Lionel Messi missed a penalty. Argentina with 6 points from three games finished as toppers in the Group and qualified for the next stage along with Poland by virtue of goal difference.
For Poland, qualification was hanging in the balance right until the end. Czeslaw Michniewicz’s side was set to advance on fair play points before Saudi Arabia’s Al Dawsiri scored a goal in the stoppage time. The match ended 2-1 in favour of Mexico.
Argentina totally dominated the game from the outset at Stadium 974, with Messi, clearly determined to build on his match-winning display against Mexico following the shock loss to Saudi Arabia, forcing a smart save from Szczesny with a powerful early effort.
The Latin Americans will now face Group D runners-up Australia in their last 16 game on Saturday, while Poland will take on Group D winners France on Sunday.