Argentina

Messi puts Argentina ahead in the 34th minute against Croatia with a powerful penalty into the top-right corner. He wins the duel with Livakovi after Álvarez earns the spot from a strong run. The goal breaks the deadlock and tilts the momentum firmly in Argentina’s favor. Messi lifts his arms in front of the Argentine fans, roaring in celebration. From this point on, Croatia struggles to recover defensively.