Lionel Messi heading home as World Cup last 16 starts with bang

France went in front, behind and in front again as they progress to the last 16 at the expense of Argentina.

By Jimmy Rice, news reporter

Saturday 30 June 2018 18:25, UK

At 31, Lionel Messi may never play in a Wold Cup again
Image: At 31, Lionel Messi may never play in a World Cup again
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France are the first team in to the World Cup quarter-finals after a thrilling 4-3 win over Argentina which sends Lionel Messi home.

Antoine Griezmann had given Les Bleus an early lead from the penalty spot in Kazan before Argentina struck twice through Angel Di Maria and Garbriel Mercado.

But a leveller from Benjamin Pavard was followed by two goals from French wonderkid Kylian Mbappe.

Kylian Mbappe celebrates putting France in the lead
Image: Kylian Mbappe celebrates putting France in the lead
Diego Maradona and girlfriend Rocio Oliva watch on in Kazan
Image: Diego Maradona and girlfriend Rocio Oliva watch on in Kazan

An injury-time goal from Sergio Aguero proved to be a consolation.

It means Lionel Messi ends the World Cup with just one goal - and at 31 he may never again grace a competition that he has never truly lit up.

Benjamin Pavard celebrates drawing his side level
Image: Benjamin Pavard celebrates drawing his side level
Angel Di Maria celebrates his stunning goal against France
Image: Angel Di Maria celebrates his stunning goal against France

Attention in Russia now turns to Ronaldo's Portugal, who take on Uruguay at 7pm to see who joins France in the last eight.

England will have to wait until Tuesday to see if they can book their place in the quarters, with Colombia the opponents.

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