Messi Nets Hat-trick as Argentina Stuns Croatia in World Cup SemifinalMessi Nets Hat-trick as Argentina Stuns Croatia in World Cup Semifinal In a spectacular display of footballing brilliance, Lionel Messi led Argentina to a stunning 3-0 victory over Croatia in the World Cup semifinal, securing their place in the tournament’s grand finale. The Barcelona legend, playing in his fifth and final World Cup, put on a masterclass performance that left the Croatian defense helpless. Messi opened the scoring in the 34th minute with a clinical finish after a brilliant run down the left flank. Just six minutes later, Messi doubled Argentina’s lead from the penalty spot, sending goalkeeper Dominik Livaković the wrong way after a foul inside the box. The second goal sent the Lusail Stadium erupted in a cacophony of cheers for the Argentine icon. Croatia, who had defied expectations by reaching the semifinals after a thrilling penalty shootout victory over Brazil, struggled to contain Messi’s magic. The Juventus star carved open the defense with ease, creating countless opportunities for his teammates. In the 69th minute, Messi capped off a perfect night with a sublime third goal. After receiving the ball from Julian Alvarez, Messi danced past two Croatian defenders before firing a powerful shot into the net. The goal sent Argentina into raptures and sealed their place in the final. Croatia’s hopes of a late comeback were dashed by Enzo Fernandez’s excellent 78th-minute goal. The Benfica midfielder scored a stunning shot from distance that left Livaković with no chance. With the victory, Argentina booked their place in their sixth World Cup final, where they will face the winner of the other semifinal between France and Morocco. Messi, who has been in sensational form throughout the tournament, will have the opportunity to cap off his illustrious career with a World Cup trophy. The win also marks a significant milestone for Argentina, who will be playing in their first World Cup final since 2014, when they lost to Germany. The South American giants will be determined to avenge that defeat and secure their third World Cup title, which would be their first since 1986.
