It’s rare to find a player these days who can match records set by the great Brazilian footballer Pele, yet Manchester City’s Julian Alvarez did just that for Argentina out in Qatar.
As per OptaJavier, the 22-year-old striker became the youngest player since Pele to score a brace in a FIFA World Cup semi-final or final, with Alvarez scoring twice as Argentina beat Croatia 3-0 to book their ticket in 2022 final this Sunday.
Julian Alvarez equals Pele World Cup record after semi-final heroics
Whilst Lionel Messi once again stole the headlines, Alvarez’s two goals were what secured the result for Argentina, with City supporters thrilled that their new star striker was once again on the scoresheet at the World Cup, with the youngster now sitting on four goals in the competition.
Alvarez arrived in Manchester this summer having been signed from River Plate, and whilst the forward hasn’t been a regular starter due to a certain Erling Haaland, the Argentine international has been impressive in the handful of appearances Pep Guardiola has handed the youngster.
Indeed, the attacker has seven goals in 20 appearances for City this season along with two assists. Yet Alvarez’s performance out in Qatar have been easily the attacker’s biggest achievement of the year so far, with the forward on level with Pele in one certain aspect.
Manchester City star can lead Argentina to World Cup glory
Alvarez has formed quite the attacking partnership with Messi out in Qatar this winter, and as a result, the 22-year-old could fancy himself as leading Argentina’s charge to win the World Cup this weekend, where they will face either France or Morocco.
Whatever happens this week, Alvarez has already solidified himself into World Cup history with his brace against Croatia, and City fans will no doubt be proud of their new superstar forward upon his return to Manchester later this month.
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