Argentina kicked off their title defence with a comfortable victory over Algeria, with Lionel Messi scoring a historic hat-trick.
Messi bounced back from missing an early penalty to become the FIFA World Cup™'s all-time top scorer as Argentina booked a place in the knockout rounds.
Messi came off the bench to score again as a much-changed Argentina ensured they topped their group in style.
Argentina were pushed to the limit by Cabo Verde, with Lisandro Martinez giving the South Americans an early lead in extra-time.
Cabo Verde levelled once again to make it 2-2 but Cristian Romero's header was deflected into the net by Diney Borges to send Argentina through.
Egypt appeared on course for victory after taking a two-goal lead before Enzo Fernandez sealed a comeback for the ages.
With Messi facing World Cup elimination, the emotions of the fightback pushed the Argentina legend to tears.
Alexis Mac Allister gave Argentina an early lead before Dan Ndoye levelled the scores in Kansas City.
Julian Alvarez and Lautaro Martinez sealed the victory in extra time against 10-man Switzerland to book their place in the semi-finals.
Argentina appeared destined for defeat until Enzo Fernandez levelled the scores with five minutes remaining in Miami.
The defending champions kept pushing and secured an epic victory in injury time through Lautaro Martinez as Argentina set up a final with Spain.
Sources: FIFA Official
