Manchester City striker Julian Alvarez is being celebrated in Argentina after helping his country reach the World Cup final.

Alvarez scored twice in the 3-0 semifinal win yesterday against Croatia.

"Nobody imagined the participation and the weight he is having in this World Cup," captain Lionel Messi said. "His help has been spectacular, he played an extraordinary game.

"It has been an extraordinary appearance, he deserves it because he is a great boy."

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni also said: "At his age, it's normal for him to want to eat the world."

Argentina midfielder Rodrigo de Paul later stated: "What defines Julián in one sentence? This boy is a crack, nothing more..."