DOHA: Lionel Messi had a penalty saved but Argentina still advanced to the last 16 of the World Cup as Group C winners after a 2-0 victory over Poland yesterday.
Poland also went through as runners-up although a 2-1 win for Mexico over Saudi Arabia in the group’s other game meant Czeslaw Michniewicz’s side advanced only on goal difference.
Alexis Mac Allister’s 46th-minute goal settled Argentina’s nerves after a tense first half, before Julian Alvarez doubled their lead just over 20 minutes later.
Messi said Argentina’s 2-0 win over Mexico in their previous match had given them “serenity” and looked forward to a last-16 match-up with Australia.
“We went out there thinking we had to win,” said Messi.
“The game against Australia will be difficult — anyone can beat anyone. It’s very even, we have to prepare for the game in the best way, as always.”
