Argentina approached this match with a 4-3-3 formation that allowed their creative players to dominate the midfield while providing width in attack. Messi frequently dropped deeper to orchestrate play, allowing Álvarez and Di María to stretch the Australian defense. Conversely, Australia set up in a compact 4-4-2 formation, aiming to break on the counter-attack with Leckie and Duke up front. The Socceroos were resilient, with a strong defensive organization, but struggled to contain Argentina's fluid attacking movement, particularly in the first half. Messi’s goal came from a well-worked move, showing Argentina's dominance and creativity. Following Argentina's second goal, Australia managed to respond with Goodwin's deflected strike, briefly igniting hopes of a comeback. However, Argentina’s tactical discipline and experience saw them through the closing stages.