Twitter reacts as Messi drags Argentina into World Cup quarter-finals

A classic moment of Messi magic gave Argentina the lead
A classic moment of Messi magic gave Argentina the lead / Sebastian Frej/MB Media/GettyImages
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Argentina had too much quality for Australia as they scraped past the Socceroos to book their place in the World Cup quarter-finals.

Australia had surprised many by progressing from a group which contained both France and Denmark, and though they fought valiantly at the Ahmad bin Ali Stadium, goals from Lionel Messi and Julian Alvarez were enough to send the Albiceleste through.

With the World Cup approaching the business end now, Twitter was abuzz with activity as these two sides went head to head, delivering quality content thoughout as fans reacted to the game in front of them.

Perhaps sensing the significance of their country appearing in the knockout stage for the first time since 2006, Australia's fans seized every opportunity to relish in the moment - especially when a certain Argentinian was involved.

Even the Australian media got in on the action, coming up with some very normal headlines such as this one. Here's hoping the Great Australian French Fries Shortage of 2022 comes to an end soon.

On the scene in Qatar, the Australian supporters weren't letting anything get in the way of their fun - even the tournament's strict security measures.

But despite some cautious optimism, it was no secret that Australia were the underdogs going into this game against an Argentina side hotly tipped to win the entire competition - though many on Twitter were unimpressed with the Albiceleste's start to the game.

Eventually, however, Argentina did break the deadlock - and with it being Lionel Messi's 1000th career game, who else was going to score the opener?

Twitter was full of praise for Messi - although some people out there still have doubts over his credentials.

Australia fought bravely, maintaining their shape as Argentina's influence over the game grew. But they couldn't hold out forever, and soon enough fans around the world were reacting to a second goal from the two-time World Cup champions.

Australia refused to go quietly, however, and found themselves back in the contest after Craig Goodwin's shot found its way in via a deflection. Cue some iconic scenes from the Socceroos and their supporters.

If we established anything tonight, it's that Argentina fans really like Lionel Messi. Still not convinced? Take a look at these reactions to a late horror miss by Messi's teammate Lautaro Martinez.

We hope Lautaro Martinez has the good sense to steer clear of social media tonight.