Argentina booked their place in the World Cup final with a ruthless 3-0 win over Croatia. Runners-up four years ago in Russia, Croatia have established themselves as specialists in taking knockout matches deep, eight of their last nine in major tournaments going to extra-time.
But that never looked likely after Argentina took complete control of the semi-final with a five-minute spell in the opening period. Lionel Messi lashed home a penalty for his fifth goal of the tournament, before Alvarez doubled the lead with a solo run after his captain had set him away on the counter.
There was not to be another comeback from Croatia, Argentina tightening it up after the break and a second for Alvarez, after some Messi magic, put the result beyond doubt. They will be at the Lusail Stadium on Sunday, when they will play either France or Morocco in football’s biggest match.
