Lionel Messi's face lit up when he saw Sergio Aguero during the 'Player of the Match' ceremony

Lionel Messi's face lit up when he saw Sergio Aguero during the 'Player of the Match' ceremony in a wholesome moment following Argentina's win over Croatia.

Messi starred as Argentina beat Croatia 3-0 on Tuesday to book their spot in the World Cup final.

He opened the scoring at the Lusail Stadium, scoring one of his best ever penalties with a thunderous strike from 12 yards.

The 35-year-old then turned provider for his side's third goal, producing a moment of magic to set up Julian Alvarez.

Naturally, he was named the 'Player of the Match' for his incredible goal contributions. He's now won four 'Player of the Match' awards this tournament, extending his lead as the player with the most.

And when he collected his award, he was reunited with his good friend Aguero, who made the presentation in a beautiful moment.

Messi's face lit up when he saw Aguero with the prize in his hand. They embraced before the Manchester City legend handed him the 'Player of the Match' trophy.

Messi and Aguero then posed for pictures in a moment that sums up their delightful friendship.

The Paris Saint-Germain forward expects Sunday's final will be the last World Cup game of his legendary career.

Lionel Messi celebrates on the pitch after Argentina beat Croatia. Image: Alamy

Speaking after guiding Argentina to yet another tournament final, he said: "I am very happy for finishing my journey in World Cups in a final, to play the last game in a final. That is really very gratifying.

"Everything I lived in this World Cup has been emotional, seeing how much it has been enjoyed in Argentina.

"There are a lot of years from this year to the next one. I don't think I will be able to do that. To finish this way is brilliant."

The seven-time Ballon d'Or winner added: "We are going to do our best, as we have done up until now, so that this time it really happens - we really win it.

"I have been enjoying it the past few years, being with the national side. I am really enjoying everything that is happening to us.

"To get the Copa America, to reach the World Cup with 36 games unbeaten, and to finish all that trajectory in a final is just incredible.

"I hope the people in Argentina enjoy themselves and what we are doing. They shouldn't doubt we are giving absolutely everything."

Topics: Sergio Aguero, Lionel Messi, Football, Football World Cup

Nasir Jabbar

Nasir Jabbar is a journalist at SPORTbible. He graduated from Bath Spa University with a BA in Media Communications. He's a combat sport aficionado and has contributed to MMA websites AddictedMMA and CagePotato. Nasir has covered some of the biggest fights, while interviewing the likes of Conor McGregor, Anthony Joshua, Tyson Fury and Darren Till. He's also an avid Bristol City fan.

@NasJabbar