Qatar 2022: Argentina through to semi final after a stormy night

The Argentines would have Emiliano Martinez to thank for saving two spot kicks during the shootout to help them cruise to the semi-final of the World Cup after beating Netherlands 4-3 on penalties.

While Argentina thought they had won it all with their two goals lead in to the early 80s, the tune of the game changed with substitute Wout Wenghorst striking twice late to push the game to penalties.

Earlier, the Argentines had the show in their hands with Molina striking the opener in the 35th minutes and Messi, who provided assist for the first goal stepping up to double their lead from the spot in the third quarter.

The Albicelestes would eventually be subjected to another round of uncertainty when Wout headed in the opener in the 83rd minutes and netted the leveller in the stroke of the final minutes.

That the game was stretched in to the extra time, both teams played with high cautions as they eye the ultimate prize, even though the Argentine failed to make a difference despite their dominance.

Fast forward to the shootout, Emiliano Martinez became the hero for the 2014 finalists, saving two penalties from Virgil van Dijk and Steven Berghuis to set a positive tone for Albicelestes.

While the moment rages on, the dust was eventually settled by Lautaro Martinez who slotted home the decider to end the affairs at the Lusail Stadium.

The Argentines will now face off with Croatia in the semi final on Tuesday at the same stadium.