Lionel Messi scored his first goal in a World Cup knockout match on his 1,000th career appearance as twice champions Argentina beat off a late fightback by Australia to win 2-1 on Saturday and reach the quarter-finals. Messi put Argentina ahead in the 35th minute with Julian Alvarez scoring early in the second half but an Enzo Fernandez own goal allowed Australia to put the Argentines under immense pressure.
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Australia reached the knockout stage of the World Cup for the first time in 16 years after shocking Denmark. The Danes, needing victory to progress, dominated possession but were caught out on the break when Australia scored the winner on the hour mark through Matthew Leckie.
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Australia held on to a narrow first-half lead to pick up a crucial victory over Tunisia that keeps alive their hopes of qualifying for the World Cup last 16. Knowing defeat would mean an early exit from the competition, Graham Arnold’s side came out of the blocks full of energy and intent.
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Defending champions France delivered a powerful statement of intent by outclassing Australia as Olivier Giroud equalled Thierry Henry’s all-time scoring record for the national team. Craig Goodwin gave the Socceroos a shock early lead but Les Bleus turned on the style to remind everyone why they are the current title holders.
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The 2022 World Cup in Qatar is almost here and Group D features the defending champions. It also features one of the last teams to qualify for the tournament, a European dark horse and a North African side looking to make history. Here’s your guide to Group D.
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