Lionel Messi in confident mood ahead of the World Cup knockout stages

Two-time world champions were crowned Group C winners after their win over Poland. Julian Alvarez (63") and Alexis Mac Allister (46) also made it to the scoresheet.

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Argentina finished the group phase with six points. This included two wins and an unexpected defeat by Saudi Arabia.

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Lionel Messi looks forward to the knockout stages at the 2022 FIFA World Cup. The seven-time Ballon d'Or winner has called the knockout stages a new World Cup tournament.

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It is worth noting that Lionel Messi got a penalty saved by Wojciech Sczesny of Poland in the first period when the score was tied at 1-1.

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Argentina however scored two goals following the penalty miss to send La Albiceleste through the Round of 16.

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Paris Saint-Germain forward Lionel Messi has contributed an assist to three matches in the tournament and scored two goals.

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Argentina is scheduled to take on Group D runners-up Australia at the Ahmad bin Ali Stadium in their Round 16 tie.

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The Socceroos won a 1-0 win over Denmark in their last group stage match to ensure a place at the knockout stages in the World Cup.

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