Shades of USA 1994: Messi becomes first player to break Maradona’s record that was created against Nigeria

The Argentine was in his elements on the night, and his brilliance pushed his side to the next round of the World Cup 

Lionel Messi guided Argentina into the round of 16 of the Qatar 2022 FIFA World Cup after a 2-0 win against Poland.

The PSG star also became the oldest player to create 5+ chances and make 5+ dribbles in a World Cup match, breaking Diego Maradona’s 28-year-old record which he created in Argentina’s 2-1 loss to Nigeria in the 1994 World Cup.

Argentina needed a victory against Poland to seal qualification to the Round of 16 of the World Cup, and star man Messi would have a big role to play if they wanted to get the result.

The PSG man could have put the Albiceleste in front in the 39th minute, but he missed his spot-kick.

However, Messi’s blushes were saved in the second half after Alexis Mac Allister put Argentina in front in the 46th minute.

Julian Alvarez then doubled Argentina’s lead in the 67th, and that was enough to complete the victory for Argentina.

Asides from his miss, Messi had a superb game with four shots on target, 98 touches, six dribbles, and five key passes.

Argentina will take on Australia in the Round of 16 at the Ahmad bin Ali Stadium on Saturday.