Age and this relentless World Cup have finally caught up with Croatia, who might have made it further had they not bumped into greatness on the way
If such a thing is even possible, the hype machine was turned up even further. The stadium announcers screamed a little higher, the pre-match pyrotechnics were a little more sparkly and the supporters were blocked from creating an organic atmosphere for a little longer. Sunday will be a magnificent occasion, whoever Argentina face. The Lusail’s steep sides make you long for ticker tape, confetti and toilet roll like it’s 1978 all over again. We at least have the geopolitical controversy.
Of course they came to see the king. Messi’s potential route to Golden Ball, Golden Boot and golden ending to his international career has been aided by three penalties, but only a fool would use that to chip away at the marble. He has been fabulous in this tournament and was the difference-maker again on Tuesday evening.
Frequently grabbing his hamstring between minutes 25 and 45, Messi lashed home a penalty, had a hand in Julian Alvarez’s second, dribbled past opponents on four different occasions and twice held off three markers before playing a pass. Age will eventually actas a natural handicapping system, but even time waits for this man.because it defined the last age of his greatness.
In his dotage, that isn’t possible – the legs just don’t work in the same way anymore. But that actually makes the dribbling more aesthetically pleasing. Now, rather than simple speed of movement,beats you with his mind. He’s the street hustler who slowly shows you which cup the ball is beneath and makes you curse when it appears in his pocket a second or two later.
In its aftermath, Messi stood in front of his congregation, motionless save only for two blown kisses. In front of him, a blue-and-white ocean twirled their scarves and bowed in appreciation and adoration. One more game. One more step from untrodden ground.
United Kingdom Latest News, United Kingdom Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Argentina 3-0 Croatia: Messi masterclass, Alvarez brace fires Argentina into World Cup finalMessi scored a penalty and provided a wonderful assist for Alvarez, who bagged a brace, as Argentina beat Croatia 3-0 to advance to the World Cup final.
Read more »
Luka Modrić: the maestro driving Croatia into a second World Cup semi-final\n\t\t\tKeep abreast of significant corporate, financial and political developments around the world.\n\t\t\tStay informed and spot emerging risks and opportunities with independent global reporting, expert\n\t\t\tcommentary and analysis you can trust.\n\t\t
Read more »
Messi scored winner at West Ham, but Croatia have humiliated Argentina at World CupLionel Messi will be hoping to help Argentina to the World Cup final against Croatia, while also improving his own record against them. The countries face each other in the first of the semi-finals…
Read more »
Bayern 'start talks' with Croatia World Cup hero Livakovic after Neuer ski accidentBayern Munich have reportedly contacted the representatives of Croatia’s World Cup hero Dominik Livakovic following a season-ending injury for captain Manuel Neuer. Neuer’s 2022/23 season was decla…
Read more »
Shootout Victors Argentina, Croatia to Battle in World Cup SemifinalsLionel Messi and Argentina will face Luka Modrić and Croatia in the 2022 World Cup Semifinals. Here is how to watch the match.
Read more »