The 2022 FIFA World Cup Final witnessed a clash of titans as Argentina faced France in a match that will forever be etched in footballing folklore. The game, played at the magnificent Lusail Stadium in Qatar on December 18, 2022, delivered a thrilling spectacle, showcasing the brilliance of individual players and the collective spirit of two footballing nations.
A Tale of Two Halves
Argentina, fueled by the desire to crown Lionel Messi’s illustrious career with the ultimate prize, started the game with intent. Their dominance was evident in the first half, culminating in a penalty converted by Messi himself and a stunning goal by Angel Di Maria. The South American giants seemed to be cruising towards victory, their fans dreaming of lifting the coveted trophy.
However, France, renowned for their resilience and attacking prowess, staged a remarkable comeback in the second half. Kylian Mbappe, the talismanic forward, ignited the comeback with two penalties, showcasing his clinical finishing ability. The game was leveled, and the atmosphere at the stadium reached fever pitch.
Extra Time Drama and Penalty Shootout
The match entered extra time, where both teams continued to push for the decisive goal. Messi, seemingly determined to secure his legacy, scored a brilliant solo goal, putting Argentina back in the lead. But Mbappe, with an ice-cool penalty, once again leveled the score, sending the game into a nail-biting penalty shootout.
In the penalty shootout, Argentina’s goalkeeper, Emiliano Martinez, emerged as the hero, saving two French penalties. Argentina held their nerve, converting their spot-kicks, and finally, after a heart-stopping climax, they were crowned champions of the world.
The Legacy of the Match
The Argentina vs. France final will be remembered as one of the greatest World Cup finals in history. It was a match that had everything: thrilling goals, dramatic comebacks, and individual brilliance. The match showcased the beauty and unpredictability of football, leaving fans around the world in awe.
For Lionel Messi, the victory marked the culmination of a remarkable career. He finally achieved the ultimate prize, silencing his critics and cementing his place as one of the greatest footballers of all time. For Kylian Mbappe, the match further solidified his status as a global superstar, showcasing his immense talent and potential.
FAQs
When and where was the 2022 FIFA World Cup final held?
The final took place on December 18, 2022, at Lusail Stadium in Lusail, Qatar.
What was the final score between Argentina and France?
The match ended in a 3-3 draw after extra time. Argentina won 4-2 in the penalty shootout to clinch their third World Cup title.
Who scored the goals in the match?
Argentina:
Lionel Messi scored twice, including a penalty.
Ángel Di María scored once.
France:
Kylian Mbappé scored a hat-trick, becoming the second player to do so in a World Cup final after Geoff Hurst in 1966.
How did the penalty shootout unfold?
In the shootout, Argentina converted all four of their penalties, while France missed two. Goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez played a crucial role by saving Kingsley Coman’s penalty, and Aurelien Tchouameni missed the target.
Why was Lionel Messi’s extra-time goal allowed?
Messi’s goal in extra time was confirmed by goal-line technology, which indicated that the ball had fully crossed the line before being cleared.
What records were set during this match?
Lionel Messi became the first player to score in every round of a single World Cup tournament.
Kylian Mbappé’s hat-trick made him the second player to achieve this feat in a World Cup final.
The match is considered one of the greatest World Cup finals in history due to its dramatic twists and high-quality play.
How significant was this win for Argentina?
This victory marked Argentina’s third World Cup title, following their triumphs in 1978 and 1986. It was particularly significant for Lionel Messi, as it completed his illustrious career with the one major trophy that had previously eluded him.
How did France perform in the tournament leading up to the final?
France had a strong tournament, finishing first in Group D with two wins and one loss. They defeated Poland, England, and Morocco in the knockout stages to reach the final.
What was the reaction to the final match?
The final was widely acclaimed as one of the greatest in World Cup history, with fans and analysts praising the high level of skill, dramatic comebacks, and the performances of star players like Messi and Mbappé.
Where can I watch highlights of the match?
Highlights of the match are available on various sports broadcasting platforms and official FIFA channels.
To conclude
In conclusion, the 2022 FIFA World Cup final between Argentina and France was a thrilling spectacle that showcased the pinnacle of football excellence. The match was a rollercoaster of emotions, with Argentina taking an early lead through goals by Messi and Di María. France, however, demonstrated remarkable resilience, with Mbappé scoring two goals in quick succession to level the score. In extra time, Messi seemed to have secured victory for Argentina, but Mbappé’s hat-trick goal from the penalty spot brought France back into contention. The penalty shootout ultimately saw Argentina emerge victorious, with goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez’s crucial save playing a pivotal role. This match not only added a glorious chapter to Argentina’s football history but also solidified Lionel Messi’s legacy as one of the greatest players in the sport’s history. For France, despite the loss, Kylian Mbappé’s exceptional performance highlighted his status as a rising star in international football. The 2022 final will be remembered for its dramatic narrative, individual brilliance, and the sheer unpredictability that makes football the world’s most beloved sport.
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