Gonzalo Higuain scored Argentina’s only goal against Belgium at Estadio Nacional Mane Garrincha in Brasilia, to progress to their first world cup semi finals since 1990.
The South Americans had the early advantage thanks to Angel Di Maria’s pass that deflected to the feet of Higuain for a non stop fine finish, that found the bottom left-hand corner from the edge of the area.
The 8th minute strike was nearly doubled in the 94 minute when Messi got through for a one on one with Thibaut Courtois, but the Belgian goalkeeper denied the four time FIFA Ballon d’or winner as he tried a delicate chip.
Lukaku’s entry, Fellaini’s aerial strength and Chadli’s efforts were not enough to gift Belgium the equaliser as the side embarked on a desperate hunt for a goal in the last 10 minutes of the game.
Argentina lost Angel Di Maria to injury in the first half but the side were very close in the second half when Ezequiel Lavezzi hit the crossbar. Following Belgium’s elimination, Argentina will now face Netherlands or Costa Rica in the semifinals in Sao Paulo on Wednesday.