Lionel Messi’s hope of winning the FIFA World Cup remains alive after Argentina beat the Netherlands in a nerve-shredding penalty shootout.
With only eight minutes remaining, Argentina led 2-0 thanks to goals from Nahuel Molina and a penalty to Messi.
But the Netherlands staged a stunning comeback as a Wout Weghorst’s brace ensured the game headed into extra time.
With neither side able to find the winner in 30 minutes of extra time, the winner had to be decided via a penalty shootout.
Argentina goalkeeper Emi Martinez proved to be the hero, saving two Dutch spot kicks.
After Enzo Fernandez missed the first penalty that would have given Argentina victory, Lautaro Martinez stepped up and hammered home the winning spot kick to send the thousands of Argentine fans inside the Lusail Stadium into delirium.
Argentina will meet Croatia in the first semifinal next week.
