11 examples of the internet losing its sh*t over Lionel Messi v Croatia | OneFootball

The internet exploded last night after Lionel Messi produced one of his best-ever performances in a World Cup semi-final triumph over Croatia.

At 35 years old Messi is still as competitive as ever and he rolled back the years with an outrageous assist in the second half to set up Julian Alvarez.

The result for Argentina means that they will play one of France or Morocco in the final on Sunday. The game will be Messi’s second World Cup final of his career after also reaching this point in 2014.

Fans and pundits alike were quick to praise Messi after the match. ITV pundit Roy Keane explained: “Do you know what, it’s a pleasure to watch him live, it really is.

“Obviously we played at a really good level, but the level he’s at, against his age, even the third goal, he’s doing that against some brilliant players, really good players.

“Honestly, it’s brilliant. Absolutely fantastic. What a player, and do you know what, I really hope he goes on to win the World Cup. I think that would be the icing on the cake for the man. He’s just fantastic, consistent.

“Listen, we’d be here all night talking about the awards he’s won. He’s lifted that group of players. They’ve had a couple of setbacks already. The reaction after giving up the two-goal lead against Holland to me summed up that team. They were on their knees but they found a way to win the game.”

Ian Wright then added: “In 2014, I think he was player of the tournament in that one. Didn’t quite work out for him in 2018.

“The pressure he’s come into this one with, maybe his last one, people talking about the team, are they good enough, losing the first game – saw that happen with Spain in South Africa and then getting to the final. Obviously, Spain went over the line.

“I think the manager got it totally right today, his tactics, nullifying their midfield and keeping it narrow.”

We’ve searched the internet and found some of the best post-match reactions from Argentina’s convincing 3-0 win over Croatia in the World Cup semi-final.

Messi magic

Best friends

Better than Maradona?

Scenes from Argentina

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Julian Alvarez

One of a kind

A beautiful moment

Dressing room scenes

Luka Modric respect

The greatest