Argentina survive Dutch comeback to win on penalties

Lionel Messi’s World Cup dream lives on after Argentina edged out the Netherlands on penalties after a hugely dramatic quarter-final at Lusail Stadium. Messi looked to have inspired Argentina into a last-four meeting with Brazil’s conquerors Croatia when he set up Nahuel Molina’s opener 10 minutes before the break and then added the second from the penalty spot in the 73rd minute after Denzel Dumfries fouled Marcos Acuna.

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Netherlands beat USA to move into quarter-finals

The Netherlands survived a late scare against the United States to move into the Fifa World Cup quarter-finals with a ruthless display of finishing. Memphis Depay and Daley Blind put the Dutch two up however Haji Wright ignited US hopes which were soon extinguished by Denzel Dumfries.

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Netherlands negotiate Qatari test with ease

In-form Cody Gakpo scored again as the Netherlands finished top of Group A, ending Qatar’s miserable involvement at their home World Cup with a third consecutive defeat. Qatar’s dismal showing means they became the first host nation to exit the tournament with three group-stage losses, finishing bottom with no points.

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Ecuador earn draw with the Netherlands in Group A

Enner Valencia scored his third goal of the World Cup before being taken off on a stretcher as Ecuador drew with the Netherlands to leave Group A wide open. PSV Eindhoven forward Cody Gakpo had given the Netherlands the lead after just five minutes and four seconds – the quickest goal so far in Qatar – when he struck a shot beautifully into the top of the net.

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Netherlands leave it late to see off Senegal

Two late goals from the Netherlands sealed an important victory in their World Cup opener against Senegal in Group A. PSV Eindhoven forward Cody Gakpo beat Chelsea goalkeeper Edouard Mendy to the ball when it was chipped in by Frenkie de Jong to nod the Dutch in front with six minutes remaining.

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