Argentina hammers United Arab Emirates 5-0 ahead of World Cup

By Emre Asikci

ISTANBUL (AA) - Argentina hammered the United Arab Emirates 5-0 on Wednesday ahead of the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.

The scoring began with a goal at the 17-minute mark from Julian Alvarez. Angel di Maria scored twice in the 25th and 36th minutes at Abu Dhabi's Muhammed Bin Zayed Stadium.

The fourth goal came from Lionel Messi in minute 44 while Joaquin Correa's goal in the 60th minute completed the shutout victory for the Albiceleste.

The win extended Argentina’s unbeaten streak to 36 matches, one game behind Italy, who is on an incredible 37-match unbeaten run.

Argentina is in Group C along with Saudi Arabia, Mexico, and Poland in the World Cup tournament.

The Group C opener will be played Nov. 22. between Argentina vs. Saudi Arabia.

Qatar 2022 will be the first World Cup tournament in the northern hemisphere that will not be held during the summer season.

The 29-day tournament will kick off Nov. 20 when Qatar plays Ecuador at 1600 GMT at Al Bayt Stadium and conclude with the final match Dec.18 at the 80,000-capacity Lusail Iconic Stadium.