Two times FIFA World Cup winners Argentina where dealt a massive blow to their reputation as one of football’s most respected nations after a disgraceful performance against Croatia in the second group B match of the 2018 world cup in Russia,
The Croatian team demystified the reputation of the Argentines after they scored 3 unreplied goals a the South American giants which had the likes of world stars like Lionel Messi, Gonzalo Higuain and Sergio Aguero.
It took until before the 64 minutes before Messi, a five-time winner of the FIFA Balon d’Or to register his first effort on target in the match, even as the duo of Higuain and Aguero only managed two touches in the opposition box combined against Croatia. Higuain came as a substitute for Aguero in the 54 minute of the game.
Croatia on their own open scoring after an insane blunder in the 53rd minute by Argentine goalkeeper Wilfredo Caballero. Caballero failed to properly clear a back pass, in the process gifting a perfect goal opportunity to a lurking Ante Rebic who made no mistake on the Ante Rebic.
The goal was the much-needed adrenaline which for the Croatian side as they dominated the game from that moment. Luka Modric who had exceptional throughout the game go the chance to produce a moment of magic in the 80th minute. The midfielder created some space outside the 18-yard box before curling a brilliant shot behind the Argentine defenders, thereby making it too late for the keeper to keep it out.
The Croatians rounded up a perfect night with a 91st minute stoppage time goal as Ivan Rakitic scored from close range after goalkeeper Caballero had been forced out the goal line.
This is the first time Argentina will be losing by 3+ goals in a first-round group game and for just the second time in their history since 1958 after they lost 1-6 to Czechoslovakia.
Croatia has now qualified for the round of 16 after wins over Nigeria and Argentina ensured that they lead Group D with maximum 6 points.