Argentina’s thrilling penalty shootout victory against the Netherlands on Friday was followed by some fairly majestic images. A true spectacle of a match was topped off by some unforgettable celebrations from Lionel Messi and Co. after they eliminated the Dutch to secure their position in the quarterfinal.
After the two sides’ 2-2 tie score in extra time, the game had to go to penalties. Argentina prevailed 5-4 in the penalty shootout, which ended up being an incredible nail-biter. Messi made sure to put his pen in.
The game’s MVP turned out to be Lautaro Martinez, who scored the game-winning penalty in the 88th minute. His teammates flocked to the Argentine striker to congratulate him on his heroic performance. However, Messi had different plans immediately following the shootout victory in GOAT fashion:
Messi buscando a Dibu Mart nez es amor pic.twitter.com/aFVv3F4h8k
— frases enzo (@FrasesDeIDiabli) December 9, 2022
Only Messi raced to goalkeeper Dibu Martinez, who was sprawled out on the field in utter pleasure. Martinez saved two Dutch penalties to help Argentina win, and he was also a hero for his country. Immediately following the shootout, Lionel Messi went to his goalie first to ensure that he recognized how crucial his saves were.
Leo Messi and Dibu Martinez celebrating together pic.twitter.com/YQ8yp14Yyh
— MC (@CrewsMat10) December 9, 2022
Lionel Messi and Emiliano Martinez pic.twitter.com/9oTtmnNjlf
— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) December 9, 2022
Before all three men joined the rest of the team in their celebrations, backup goalkeeper Franco Armani ran to join Martinez in their joy.
Read More: Erik Ten Hag Was Very Harsh on Cristiano Ronaldo After Manchester United’s Rough Exit!
Argentina is no more. Messi and company have advanced to the semifinals despite a fierce push from the Netherlands, where they will play Croatia, another difficult opponent.
