How Argentina reacted to Brazil's World Cup elimination
Friday 9 December 2022 will go down in history as one of the most entertaining days in World Cup history.
Croatia shocked the world by beating Brazil in the earlier kick off. Neymar's goal in extra time looked to have put the Selecao into the semi finals, but Bruno Petkovic struck in the 117th minute to take the game to penalties.
Misses from Marquinhos and Rodrygo allowed Croatia to secure a 4-2 victory on spot kicks, with Neymar not taking one as his side's planned fifth taker.
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Argentina fans were seen getting their phones out at Lusail Iconic Stadium to watch the shootout unfold and there were scenes of jubilation when Marquinhos' miss ensured Brazil's elimination.
Argentinian fans celebrating Brazil’s loss in the stadium ahead of their quarter final match vs Netherlands in an hour pic.twitter.com/RHuLesSK5R
— Stu Holden (@stuholden) December 9, 2022
The two South American giants would have squared off in the semi finals had the Selecao gone through, with Argentina later securing their own penalty shootout victory against the Netherlands despite messing up a 2-0 lead in normal time. They will now face Croatia in the semi finals.
If the day panned out well for Argentina, on the other end of the spectrum was former Brazil striker Fred, who had a rather humbling 24 hours.
The now retired striker had spoken of his desire to see Argentina exit the competition with some tears from Lionel Messi.
He said: "I want the Brazil-Argentina semi-final. I want confusion, turmoil, Neymar's pen, Messi crying."
However, there will be no such semi final. Instead, it's the yellow part of South America who have to deal with a premature exit, a fact not lost on some on social media.
Hahhahahahaahhaa just remembered Fred, the former Brazil player talking about how he wants Messi crying and Brazil beating them. Beat Croatia first
— Kaine 💙❤️ (@KaineBarcaFC) December 10, 2022
fred wanted to see messi cry. he may now look at these faces 🤣 https://t.co/MGHua7g01I
— Mustafa (@Hydronium112) December 9, 2022
Lmao Fred was confidently saying he wants to see Messi cry when they face Argentina like as if Brazil qualification vs Croatia was already sure. Now let’s see who will cry 😂💀
— HeavyWeight (@Chidubem_OH) December 9, 2022
Brazil were thinking of Argentina even before their QF against Croatia! Very disrespectful. Even Fred that United want to dump was wishing Messi tears. Funny guy. Rather guess who cried. Another coach to resign soon! #FIFAWorldCup
— thelastdon (@messithelastdon) December 9, 2022
The journey continues for Messi and Argentina as they bid for a first World Cup trophy since 1986, but Brazil's barren run since 2002 will have to continue for another four years at least.