Mbappé’s Historic Hat-Trick in 2022 World Cup Final. One of the greatest games in football history, the 2022 FIFA World Cup final will live on forever in the annals of football history. On December 18, 2022, at the Lusail Iconic Stadium in Qatar, France and Argentina battled for glory in a pulsating encounter that culminated in an unforgettable moment of brilliance: Kylian Mbappé’s historic hat-trick. While Argentina eventually triumphed via a dramatic penalty shootout to crown Lionel Messi’s fairytale ending, Mbappé’s electrifying performance cemented his place as one of football’s all-time greats. Let’s delve deeper into the significance, drama, and impact of this extraordinary event.
The Build-Up to the 2022 World Cup Final
The road to the World Cup final saw both teams overcoming immense challenges. Argentina, led by Lionel Messi in what many considered his last World Cup, started shakily with a shocking loss to Saudi Arabia in the group stage. But Messi and his team bounced back, navigating tough matches against the Netherlands and Croatia to secure their spot in the final.
On the other hand, France entered the tournament as defending champions. Despite several injuries to key players, including Karim Benzema and N’Golo Kanté, they showcased their depth with young stars like Aurélien Tchouaméni and veterans like Olivier Giroud stepping up. Kylian Mbappé was the talisman throughout the tournament, and he carried his team to another final after defeating England and Morocco in the knockout rounds.
Pre-Match Tensions and Expectations
Anticipation was sky-high as the final pitted Lionel Messi, one of the greatest players in history, against Kylian Mbappé, the heir apparent to football’s throne. For Messi, it was the last chance to win the elusive World Cup trophy and cement his legacy. For Mbappé, it was an opportunity to secure back-to-back titles at just 23 years of age.
Pundits debated whether France’s pace and physicality would overwhelm Argentina or if Messi’s magic could break through the resolute French defense. Two football giants were set to face off in an epic match.
Argentina’s Early Dominance
The match began with Argentina asserting dominance. Lionel Messi, as always, was at the heart of everything, dictating the tempo and orchestrating attacks. Argentina struck first in the 23rd minute when Messi calmly converted a penalty after Ángel Di María was fouled in the box. The Lusail Iconic Stadium erupted as Messi celebrated with his teammates.
Di Mara’s stunning team goal gave Argentina a 2-0 lead 13 minutes later. A swift counter-attack saw Messi and Julián Álvarez combine to set up Di María, who finished with poise. By halftime, Argentina was in control, leading 2-0 and seemingly on the verge of victory. Mbappé’s Historic Hat-Trick in 2022 World Cup Final.
Mbappé’s Magic: The Turning Point
If the first half belonged to Argentina, the second half was Mbappé’s time to shine. With just 10 minutes remaining in regular time, France looked defeated. However, a moment of brilliance from Mbappé changed everything. In the 80th minute, the referee awarded France a penalty after Nicolás Otamendi fouled Randal Kolo Muani in the box. Mbappé stepped up and smashed the ball past Emiliano Martínez to make it 2-1.
Barely a minute later, Mbappé produced a moment of pure genius. Receiving a pass from Marcus Thuram, he unleashed a breathtaking volley that left Martínez with no chance. Just like that, Mbappé had leveled the match at 2-2, stunning the Argentine fans and breathing life into France’s hopes.
Extra Time Drama
The game entered extra time with both teams exhausted but determined to claim victory. Lionel Messi appeared to have delivered Argentina’s crowning moment in the 108th minute when he tapped in a rebound to make it 3-2. The Argentine fans erupted in jubilation, believing that Messi had secured his legacy.
However, Mbappé was not finished. A penalty was awarded after his shot struck the arm of an Argentine defender in the 118th minute. Calm under immense pressure, Mbappé scored to complete his hat-trick, becoming the first player since Geoff Hurst in 1966 to score three goals in a World Cup final. The match ended 3-3, sending it to a penalty shootout.
The Penalty Shootout: Argentina Prevails
In the penalty shootout, Argentina held their nerve. Emiliano Martínez, Argentina’s goalkeeper, became the hero by saving Kingsley Coman’s spot-kick and unsettling the French players with his antics. Meanwhile, Lionel Messi and his teammates converted their penalties with precision. Gonzalo Montiel scored the decisive penalty, securing Argentina’s 4-2 victory in the shootout.
While Argentina celebrated their World Cup triumph, Mbappé’s hat-trick ensured he left the pitch as a hero. Despite the loss, his performance was widely hailed as one of the greatest individual displays in football history. Mbappé’s Historic Hat-Trick in 2022 World Cup Final.
Mbappé’s Hat-Trick in Numbers
Kylian hat-trick was remarkable not just for its impact but also for its historical significance:
- Youngest Hat-Trick Hero: At 23 years old, Mbappé became the youngest player to score a hat-trick in a World Cup final.
- First in Over 50 Years: The last player to achieve this feat was England’s Geoff Hurst in 1966.
- Golden Boot Winner: With eight goals in the tournament, Mbappé won the Golden Boot, edging out Messi (7 goals).
These milestones underline Mbappé’s ability to perform on the biggest stage.
Impact on Mbappé’s Legacy
Kylian Mbappé’s performance in the 2022 final elevated him to legendary status. At such a young age, he has already achieved feats that most players can only dream of. His ability to deliver in high-pressure situations, combined with his blistering pace, technical skill, and composure, has drawn comparisons to legends like Pelé.
Mbappé’s hat-trick against Argentina not only showcased his talent but also cemented his position as the future of football. With years ahead of him, he has the potential to break records and redefine the sport.
Argentina’s Glory vs. Mbappé’s Brilliance
While Argentina’s victory will be remembered as a team triumph and Messi’s crowning achievement, Mbappé’s brilliance added an extraordinary layer to the narrative. The final was a clash of eras, with Messi achieving his lifelong dream and Mbappé proving he is ready to take over the mantle as football’s next superstar.
Why This Final Will Never Be Forgotten
The 2022 World Cup final had everything: drama, goals, comebacks, and iconic moments. It was not just a football match but a spectacle that captivated millions around the world. Fans will recount this game for generations, debating Messi’s impact, Mbappé’s heroics, and the emotional rollercoaster that unfolded in Qatar.
FAQs
- Who won the 2022 World Cup final?
Argentina defeated France via penalty shootout after a 3-3 draw. - Mbappé scored how many goals in the final?
Mbappé scored three goals, completing a historic hat-trick. - What was the Golden Boot winner of the 2022 World Cup?
Kylian Mbappé won the Golden Boot with eight goals. - What was the final score of the match?
The match ended 3-3, with Argentina winning 4-2 in the penalty shootout. - Where was the 2022 World Cup final held?
The final took place at the Lusail Iconic Stadium in Qatar.
