World Cup: Argentina defeat the Netherlands in quarter-finals

Argentina have kicked the Netherlands out of the world cup tournament in Qatar.

The game which ended in a 2-2 draw leading to penalty kicks saw Argentina captain Lionel Messi superbly set up Nahuel Molina for their first-half opener before converting a penalty kick to put his side on course.

However, Wout Weghorst’s header 10 minutes later gave the Netherlands hope as he then forced an additional thirty minutes when he scrambled the ball home with only seconds left.

Neither side could find a winner, with Argentina prevailing on penalties, winning 4-3.

They will now face Croatia in the semi-finals after their shocking victory over Brazil.

Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni in a post-match statement said: “This team has the spirit to be able to face every moment of the situation. From my point of view, we didn’t deserve to go to penalties, but even so, the team continued to show its face.

“We had the game under control, but soccer has this, even when you think it’s all over. This team has youth and pride. It is fundamental to never give up.

“We always thought about attacking, regardless of what they did. The game was so tight that it was difficult for us, especially in the second half. However, we are satisfied.”