Mascherano and Messi, together with their team, Argentina, became the second finalist of the World Cup after they defeated the Netherlands in a penalty shootout. The match, which didn’t open up until extra time, was decided from the eleven-meter mark.
In the first half, both teams studied each other and didn’t risk leaving themselves open at the back. An error could have unraveled the game and both teams preferred to try their luck at scoring the opener without leaving too much space for the other side.
Argentina’s team, with Messi leading the charge, had a clear chance to score through a free kick and the Netherlands tried to threaten Romero’s goal but were unsuccessful. The scoreboard at the end of the first 45 remained 0-0.
The start of the second half was similar to the first 45 minutes. With the rain falling on Sao Paulo, Argentina was the only team that threatened to score thanks to chance created by Lavezzi, but Higuaín was unable to send the ball to the back of the net. Van Gaal’s Netherlands team, on the other hand, had more of the possession, but they couldn’t breakdown the defensive web set up by their rivals.
Argentina was clearly led by Mascherano in extra time, it seemed as though the FC Barcelona player was everywhere. The Netherlands’ most dangerous player was Robben, who threatened to score on various occasions in the first 15 minutes.
Sergio Romero came up big in the shootout. He saved Vlaar’s attempt while Messi knocked in Argentina’s first. Messi's was followed by successful efforts from Garay and Kun.
Romero went on to save Sneijder’s penalty, which put Argentina up by two goals. Maxi Rodriguez stepped up to the spot and fired into the back of the net and sent Argentina to the finals of the 2014 World Cup.
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