Daily Archives: December 10, 2022

Argentina beat Netherlands on penalties: The Messi pass, Martinez heroics and Weghorst causes havoc

“Lionel Messi produced one of the moments of the World Cup in Argentina’s win against the Netherlands, a majestic no-look reverse pass to set up Nahuel Molina for the opening goal. But that was somewhat overshadowed by a stirring fightback from Louis van Gaal’s side, who forced extra time after two very late goals by the former Burnley striker Wout Weghorst. …”
The Athletic
Guardian: Argentina edge Netherlands in shootout to win World Cup quarter-final thriller
The Athletic: Messi and Martinez criticise ‘useless’ referee after Argentina’s win over Netherlands
Aljazeera – ‘Joy, sadness’: Football unites Argentina during World Cup 2022

Croatia beat Brazil – Penalties, Neymar’s moment of genius and Gvardiol’s defence

“Croatia progressed to the World Cup semi-finals after beating Brazil on penalties. A tense 90 minutes where clear-cut chances were few and far between meant extra time was needed, which perhaps shouldn’t have been a surprise – eight of Croatia’s last nine tournament knockout games have gone to extra time. … Having had a quiet night, Neymar delivered a passage of magical football as he played through the resolute Croatia defence before rounding Dominik Livakovic and guiding the ball into the roof of the net. …”
The Athletic
The Analyst – Croatia 1-1 Brazil: Livaković the Penalty Hero Once Again for Croatia
NPR: Croatia stuns top-ranked Brazil to advance to the World Cup semifinals
Guardian: Croatia reach World Cup semi-final as Brazil miss twice in penalty shootout
The Athletic: Neymar weeps for the end of his world – and his place in Brazil history