Argentina vs France: Messi Shines in 2022 World Cup Final. The 2022 FIFA World Cup Final was a breathtaking clash that etched itself in history as one of the greatest football matches of all time. Argentina, led by Lionel Messi, faced the defending champions France in a dramatic battle that had fans worldwide on the edge of their seats. With mesmerizing goals, a penalty shootout, and a nail-biting conclusion, the game solidified Messi’s legacy while delivering an unforgettable spectacle.
The Build-Up to the 2022 World Cup Final
The 2022 FIFA World Cup held in Qatar was unlike any other. From its mid-season timing to its controversies, the tournament had captured global attention long before the final whistle. Argentina and France both came into the tournament as strong contenders, showcasing their skills throughout the competition. Argentina aimed to end their 36-year drought, while France sought to defend their title and make history.
Argentina’s Journey to the Final
Argentina’s journey was nothing short of a rollercoaster. Their campaign started with a shocking defeat to Saudi Arabia, but Messi and his team bounced back in style. With stunning wins against Mexico, Poland, Australia, the Netherlands, and Croatia, Argentina showed resilience, passion, and an unyielding desire to win the cup.
France’s Dominance Throughout the Tournament
France, on the other hand, looked formidable from the start. Despite losing key players like Karim Benzema and N’Golo Kanté to injuries, the French team, led by Didier Deschamps, dominated with an impressive squad. Kylian Mbappé, Antoine Griezmann, and Olivier Giroud were instrumental as France stormed past teams like England and Morocco on their path to the final. Argentina vs France: Messi Shines in 2022 World Cup Final.
The Stage is Set: Lusail Iconic Stadium
The Lusail Iconic Stadium, a magnificent architectural masterpiece in Qatar, was the perfect backdrop for this monumental clash. Packed with 88,966 fans, the atmosphere was electric. Chants of “Messi! Messi!” The stadium was filled with a passionate atmosphere that was countered by equally passionate French fans.
First Half: Argentina’s Dominance
The opening 45 minutes saw Argentina assert their authority in the game. From the first whistle, the South American team displayed intense energy and sharp attacking moves.
Messi Converts a Penalty
Argentina was awarded a penalty in the 23rd minute after Ángel Di María was fouled inside the box. Calm and composed as ever, Lionel Messi stepped up and converted the penalty with surgical precision, sending the Argentine fans into a frenzy.
Di María’s Stunning Goal
Argentina’s momentum didn’t stop there. In the 36th minute, Ángel Di María scored a sensational team goal after a quick counter-attack, doubling Argentina’s lead. The first half ended with Argentina firmly in control, while France struggled to find their rhythm. Argentina vs France: Messi Shines in 2022 World Cup Final.
Second Half: Mbappé Sparks a Comeback
France looked like a different team after halftime. Didier Deschamps made crucial substitutions, bringing on players like Randal Kolo Muani and Kingsley Coman. The match quickly turned into a spectacle of resilience and grit.
Mbappé’s Rapid Brace
In the 80th minute, Kylian Mbappé brought France back into the game with a perfectly struck penalty. Less than two minutes later, he stunned the world again with a phenomenal volley, leveling the score at 2-2. Suddenly, it was game on, and the momentum had shifted dramatically.
Extra Time: Messi Rises Again
Extra time was called after the game was tied at 2-2. Both teams pushed relentlessly, but it was Lionel Messi who delivered yet another iconic moment.
Messi Scores in Extra Time
In the 108th minute, Messi capitalized on a chaotic defensive sequence inside the French box, slotting the ball home to put Argentina ahead 3-2. It was a historic goal, making Messi the first player to score in every knockout round of a World Cup.
Mbappé’s Hat-Trick Seals the Drama
Kylian Mbappé refused to back down. In the 118th minute, His hat-trick was completed when he earned and converted another penalty. In the World Cup final, Mbappé scored a hat-trick for the first time since Geoff Hurst in 1966.
The Penalty Shootout: A Nail-Biting Finish
The game was decided by penalties after the score was tied at 3-3. Both teams were exhausted, but the shootout demanded nerves of steel.
Emiliano Martínez’s Heroics
Argentina’s goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez emerged as the hero of the shootout. His crucial saves, combined with Argentina’s precision from the spot, gave the Albiceleste the edge. Gonzalo Montiel scored the winning penalty, securing Argentina’s victory.
Lionel Messi’s Crowning Moment
For Lionel Messi, this victory was the pinnacle of an illustrious career. Having won every major trophy at the club and international level, the World Cup was the one piece missing from his collection. In this final, Messi scored two goals, delivered clutch moments, and led his team to glory.
Messi vs. Mbappé: A Clash of Titans
While Messi’s triumph was the headline, Kylian Mbappé’s performance was equally monumental. The young French star’s hat-trick made him the tournament’s top scorer, earning the Golden Boot. The game symbolized the passing of the torch, as Mbappé emerged as the heir to Messi’s legacy.
Reactions from Around the World
The football world erupted in celebration and admiration. From fans in Buenos Aires flooding the streets to tributes pouring in from players and celebrities worldwide, the victory was hailed as a moment for the ages.
Argentina’s Nationwide Celebration
In Argentina, the celebrations were unparalleled. Buenos Aires was transformed into a sea of blue and white as millions gathered there. For a country deeply passionate about football, this victory meant more than just a trophy—it was a unifying moment of pride and joy.
Legacy of the 2022 World Cup Final
The 2022 World Cup final will be remembered as a match that transcended sport. This game was a testament to football’s unpredictability, drama, and sheer magic. Messi’s legacy is now cemented as one of the greatest in football history, while Mbappé’s star continues to rise.
FAQs
- Who won the 2022 FIFA World Cup final?
This game was a testament to football’s unpredictability, drama, and sheer magic. - In the final, how many goals did Lionel Messi score?
Messi scored two goals in the final and converted a penalty during the shootout. - Who scored a hat-trick in the 2022 final?
Kylian Mbappé scored a historic hat-trick in the final. - Who was Argentina’s goalkeeper in the final?
Emiliano Martínez was Argentina’s goalkeeper and played a crucial role in the penalty shootout. - Where was the 2022 World Cup final held?
The final was held at Lusail Iconic Stadium in Qatar.
