The Iconic Argentina vs. France Final in 2022: A Historic Showdown

On December 18, 2022, the Lusail Iconic Stadium in Qatar hosted a World Cup final that will be remembered for generations. Argentina and France battled it out in an exhilarating match that showcased the beauty, drama, and unpredictability of football. The encounter was a rollercoaster of emotions, culminating in Argentina’s victory and solidifying Lionel Messi’s legacy as one of the greatest footballers in history.

Pre-Match Anticipation

The anticipation leading up to the final was palpable. The footballing world was abuzz with discussions about Lionel Messi. The Argentine captain was on the brink of achieving what many considered the final piece of his illustrious career: a World Cup trophy. Winning this tournament would elevate him to a status that few have ever reached, comparable to legends like Pelé and Maradona. Meanwhile, France, under the leadership of their young star Kylian Mbappe, was aiming to defend their title and assert their dominance in world football.

First Half: Argentina’s Domination

From the very first whistle, Argentina established their dominance on the field. Their relentless pressure paid off in the 23rd minute when Ángel Di María was fouled in the penalty area, earning a penalty for Argentina. Messi stepped up and calmly converted, sending the Argentine fans into a frenzy. This goal marked Messi’s 12th in World Cup history, putting him on par with the legendary Brazilian, Pelé.

The Albiceleste continued their assault, and in the 36th minute, they struck again. A sublime team move saw Messi thread a pass to Alexis Mac Allister, who then delivered a perfect cross for Di María. Di María finished with a precise shot, giving Argentina a 2-0 lead. France seemed out of sorts, unable to muster a single shot on target in the first half, an unprecedented occurrence in World Cup final history since such records have been kept.

France’s Resurgence

The second half began with Argentina in control, and it appeared as though they would cruise to victory. However, the game took a dramatic turn in the 80th minute. Nicolás Otamendi fouled Randal Kolo Muani in the box, and the referee awarded France a penalty. Kylian Mbappe, with nerves of steel, converted the penalty, giving France a lifeline.

Just a minute later, in a breathtaking sequence of play, Mbappe struck again. A quick one-two with Marcus Thuram saw Mbappe volley the ball into the net, leveling the match at 2-2. The French supporters erupted in joy as the game was suddenly wide open.

Extra Time: A Battle of Titans

With the score tied at 2-2, the match headed into extra time. Both teams pushed forward, seeking the decisive goal. In the 109th minute, Lionel Messi once again showcased his brilliance. After Hugo Lloris parried a shot, Messi was in the right place at the right time to score from close range, giving Argentina a 3-2 lead.

But the drama was far from over. In the 118th minute, Mbappe completed his hat-trick with another penalty, becoming only the second player in history to score three goals in a World Cup final. The score was 3-3, and the match would be decided by the nerve-wracking penalty shootout.

Penalty Shootout: Argentina Prevails

In the penalty shootout, Argentina’s goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez emerged as the hero. He made crucial saves, and when Gonzalo Montiel stepped up to take the decisive penalty, he made no mistake. Montiel’s goal secured a 4-2 victory for Argentina in the shootout, sealing their third World Cup title and their first since 1986, when Diego Maradona led them to glory.

Aftermath and Legacy

Lionel Messi was awarded the Golden Ball as the tournament’s best player, having scored seven goals and provided three assists. His performances throughout the tournament were nothing short of sensational. For Messi, lifting the World Cup trophy was the culmination of a lifelong dream and a fitting capstone to an extraordinary career.

Kylian Mbappe, despite the defeat, left an indelible mark on the tournament. He finished as the top scorer with eight goals, earning the Golden Boot. His hat-trick in the final solidified his reputation as one of the brightest stars in world football and hinted at a promising future ahead.

Reflections on the Tournament

The 2022 World Cup in Qatar was not without its controversies and challenges. The mid-season scheduling, logistical issues, and various other factors created a unique backdrop for the tournament. However, the thrilling final between Argentina and France provided a fitting climax. It was a match that encapsulated the very essence of football — passion, unpredictability, and drama.

The final will be remembered as a testament to the resilience, skill, and determination of both teams. It was a moment of national pride for Argentina and a crowning achievement for Messi. For France, it was a reminder of their immense talent and the bright future that lies ahead with players like Mbappe at the helm.

Comparing Messi and Maradona and Their World Cup Final Wins

Lionel Messi’s triumph in the 2022 World Cup final draws inevitable comparisons to Diego Maradona’s legendary victory in 1986. Both players are revered in Argentina and around the world, and their respective World Cup wins have cemented their statuses as footballing icons.

In 1986, Maradona led Argentina to glory in Mexico with a series of mesmerizing performances. His “Hand of God” goal and the “Goal of the Century” against England are etched in football folklore. Maradona’s influence on the tournament was profound, and his leadership and skill carried Argentina to their second World Cup title.

Messi’s journey in 2022 was marked by a similar blend of skill, leadership, and determination. Unlike Maradona, Messi had faced criticism for his inability to win a major international trophy with Argentina. However, his performances in Qatar silenced those critics. Messi’s vision, creativity, and clinical finishing were pivotal in Argentina’s triumph. His ability to inspire and lead his team to victory showcased his greatness and paralleled Maradona’s impact in 1986.

While Maradona’s win was characterized by individual brilliance and moments of magic, Messi’s victory was a testament to his consistency, longevity, and ability to perform under pressure. Both players have left an indelible legacy in World Cup history, and their triumphs are celebrated as defining moments in football.

Conclusion

The Argentina vs. France final in 2022 will forever be remembered as one of the most iconic matches in football history. It was a perfect blend of high stakes, individual brilliance, and team spirit. For Argentina, it was a moment of national pride, and for Lionel Messi, a crowning achievement that fulfilled a lifelong dream. For football fans around the world, it was a match that encapsulated everything that makes the sport so special — passion, unpredictability, and unforgettable moments.