World Cup: Argentina beat Poland, through to last 16

Argentina thrashed Poland 2-0 to finish as Group C winners on Wednesday.

Former Barcelona star, Lionel Messi, missed a penalty but Argentina still clinched top spot in Group C with the victory.

Alexis Mac Allister scored the opener for Argentina shortly after the break, before Julian Alvarez’s stunning strike added a second at the Lusail Stadium in Qatar.

Argentina’s victory moved Lionel Scaloni’s side to the top of their Group and they will face Australia in the last 16.

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Poland, however, offered very little at the other end – no shots on target and only 26.7 per cent of possession – but they will face France in the last 16.

Poland squeezed into the last 16 on goal difference ahead of Mexico, who defeated Saudi Arabia 2-1.

Speaking to reporters after the game, Mac Allister said: “It’s so emotional for me, for the whole squad. It’s a dream come true.

“I debuted with this team, I’m so proud of that. And now managing to score in a World Cup, I’m so happy.

“(After Messi’s penalty kick) we tried to stay positive, to stay calm. We did not feel down. We tried to be optimistic. Fortunately we managed to win and go through.”

The Star

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Segun Ojo

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