Julian Alvarez World Cup 2022Getty

WATCH: Ryan howler gifts Julian Alvarez goal for Argentina against Australia at World Cup 2022

  • Argentina 1-0 up
  • Ryan makes poor error
  • Julian Alvarez doubles lead

WHAT HAPPENED? Australia goalkeeper Ryan was guilty of a mistake as took a heavy touch from a back pass which allowed Alvarez to nick possession and fire the ball into an empty net to make it 2-0 to Argentina. It was a crucial error, as it gave Argentina a needed cushion with Australia pulling a late goal back in an eventual 2-1 result.

THE BIGGER PICTURE: Alvarez's goal left Australia with a mountain to climb. Argentina had gone ahead through Lionel Messi's first World Cup knockout goal and had dominated proceedings. Alvarez's second just before the hour mark put Lionel Scaloni's side in charge of the game, and while Australia did score late, it was merely a consolation.

WHAT NEXT? Argentina go on to face the Netherlands in the quarter-finals.

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