World Cup 2022: Argentina Vs France Full Match
Alright guys, gather 'round because we're about to dive deep into one of the most electrifying finals in World Cup history! We're talking about the 2022 FIFA World Cup Final, a clash that had Argentina and France battling it out for the ultimate glory. This wasn't just a game; it was a rollercoaster of emotions, a tactical masterclass, and a display of sheer individual brilliance that had the entire planet glued to their screens. From the opening whistle to the nail-biting penalty shootout, every second was pure drama. So, let's break down this epic encounter, relive the unforgettable moments, and see how Lionel Messi finally clinched that elusive World Cup trophy.
The Road to the Final: Argentina and France's Journey
Before we get into the nitty-gritty of the final itself, it's crucial to appreciate how these two titans even got there. Argentina, led by the legendary Lionel Messi, navigated a challenging path. They started their campaign with a shock defeat to Saudi Arabia, which sent ripples of doubt through the squad and their passionate fanbase. However, this early setback only seemed to galvanize them. They rallied, finding their rhythm and showcasing the grit and determination that would define their tournament run. Victories against Mexico, Poland, Australia, the Netherlands, and Croatia saw them steadily progress, with Messi delivering a series of mesmerizing performances, scoring crucial goals and providing moments of magic that reminded everyone why he's considered by many to be the greatest of all time. The midfield, marshalled by Enzo FernĂĄndez and Rodrigo De Paul, provided a perfect blend of steel and creativity, while the defense, anchored by NicolĂĄs Otamendi and Cristian Romero, proved increasingly resolute. Their journey was a testament to their resilience and their unwavering belief in their captain.
On the other side, France entered the tournament as defending champions, and they looked every bit the part. Despite facing some injury concerns and the infamous 'champion's curse' looming, Les Bleus powered through. Kylian Mbappé, their electrifying superstar, was in scintillating form, scoring goals for fun and leaving defenders in his wake. Alongside him, talents like Antoine Griezmann rediscovered their best form, orchestrating play with intelligence and vision. France showcased their depth and quality, overcoming challenges from teams like Denmark, Poland, England, and Morocco. Their attacking prowess was undeniable, but their defense, though tested, also held firm for the most part. They possessed a blend of experience and youthful exuberance, making them a formidable opponent for anyone. Their progression was marked by clinical finishing and a tactical flexibility that allowed them to adapt to different opponents and game situations, underscoring their status as a team built for success on the grandest stage.
The Final Showdown: A Match for the Ages
The atmosphere in the Lusail Stadium was electric. The World Cup 2022 Final between Argentina and France was more than just a football match; it was a cultural event, a global spectacle. From the outset, Argentina came out with an intensity that signaled their intentions. They pressed high, moved the ball with purpose, and looked determined to control the game. Their early dominance paid dividends in the 23rd minute when Angel Di MarĂa, who was a surprise inclusion and proved to be a masterstroke by coach Lionel Scaloni, was brought down in the box. The referee pointed to the spot, and who else but Lionel Messi stepped up to calmly slot the penalty past Hugo Lloris, sending the Argentine fans into a frenzy. This goal was monumental, not just for Argentina's lead, but for Messi personally, putting him one step closer to his ultimate dream. Argentina continued to assert their authority, playing with a swagger and a tactical discipline that stifled France's attacking threats. The French attack, which had been so potent throughout the tournament, struggled to find its footing against a well-organized Argentine defense. The first half ended with Argentina firmly in control, leading 1-0, and many were starting to believe that Messi's crowning moment was on the horizon.
The second half began much like the first, with Argentina maintaining their composure and control. They were executing their game plan to near perfection, looking solid defensively and dangerous on the counter-attack. Then, in the 36th minute of the first half, something magical happened. A swift, incisive counter-attack saw Argentina carve open the French defense. Alexis Mac Allister played a brilliant through ball to JuliĂĄn Ălvarez, who squared it across the face of goal for Ăngel Di MarĂa to finish with a flourish. It was a goal of breathtaking beauty, a culmination of a stunning team move that left France reeling and the scoreline at 2-0. Di MarĂa's celebration was pure emotion, a cathartic release for a player who had endured so much in his career. At 2-0 up and with less than 20 minutes of the second half played, Argentina seemed to be cruising towards victory. The narrative was writing itself: Messi, in his likely final World Cup appearance, was on course to lift the trophy he so desperately craved. The commentator's voices were filled with awe, and the world watched, mesmerized by Argentina's dominant display. It felt like the dream was within touching distance, the culmination of years of hard work, near misses, and unwavering dedication.
Mbappé's Comeback: The French Fire Ignites
Just when it seemed like the match was slipping away from France, Kylian MbappĂ© decided it was time to remind everyone why he is a generational talent. In the 70th minute, France was awarded a penalty after Randal Kolo Muani was fouled by NicolĂĄs Otamendi. MbappĂ© stepped up, and with his characteristic power and precision, he blasted the ball past Emiliano MartĂnez. The score was now 2-1, and suddenly, the momentum began to shift. The Argentine fans, who had been in raptures, felt a nervous tension creeping in. This goal was the spark that France needed, and MbappĂ© was far from done. Less than two minutes later, in the 72nd minute, MbappĂ© produced a moment of sheer genius. He played a quick one-two with Marcus Thuram, received the ball back on the edge of the area, and with an exquisite volley, he fired an unstoppable shot into the top corner of the net. It was a goal of incredible skill and composure, leveling the score at 2-2 and sending the French supporters into delirium. In the span of just 97 seconds, Kylian MbappĂ© had transformed the game from a comfortable Argentine lead into a pulsating, tied contest. This remarkable turnaround showcased the resilience and attacking threat of the French team and highlighted MbappĂ©'s ability to single-handedly change the course of a match. The commentators were in disbelief, and the world was witnessing a World Cup Final for the ages, a true testament to the unpredictable nature of football and the brilliance of its star players. The game, which had seemed destined for an Argentine victory, was now wide open, with extra time looming.
Extra Time Thrills and Penalty Shootout Drama
The introduction of extra time only heightened the drama of this World Cup 2022 Final. Both teams, having given their all, were showing signs of fatigue, but the stakes were too high to ease up. The tension was palpable as the clock ticked by. In the 108th minute, Argentina thought they had won it. A shot by Lautaro MartĂnez was parried by Lloris, but the rebound fell to Lionel Messi. With the goal at his mercy, Messi struck the ball firmly, only for it to be spectacularly cleared off the line by a last-ditch intervention from Jules KoundĂ©. It was a heart-stopping moment, a near miss that could have sealed the trophy for Argentina. But football, as we know, is a game of fine margins. Just minutes later, in the 118th minute, France won a corner. The ball was whipped in, and it struck the arm of Gonzalo Montiel. After a lengthy VAR review, the referee awarded France a penalty for a handball. Once again, Kylian MbappĂ© stepped up to the spot. With nerves of steel, he completed his hat-trick, scoring his third goal of the night and putting France 3-3. This made MbappĂ© the first player to score a hat-trick in a World Cup final since Geoff Hurst in 1966, a truly historic achievement. The score remained deadlocked at 3-3 after 120 minutes of pulsating football, meaning the ultimate prize would be decided by a penalty shootout. The sheer intensity and back-and-forth nature of the game meant that a penalty shootout was perhaps the most fitting, albeit agonizing, way to determine the champions. The pressure on the players was immense, with the hopes of two nations resting on their shoulders.
The Penalty Shootout: Argentina's Triumph
And so, we arrived at the ultimate test of nerve: the penalty shootout. The 2022 World Cup Final had already delivered more drama than most finals combined, and the shootout was no different. Argentina took the first penalty, and Lionel Messi calmly converted, sending Lloris the wrong way. France responded, with MbappĂ© also netting his penalty. The tension was immense. Kingsley Coman stepped up for France next, but his shot was saved by the hero of the shootout, Emiliano MartĂnez, diving low to his right. This was a massive moment, giving Argentina the advantage. AurĂ©lien TchouamĂ©ni then missed France's third penalty, dragging his shot wide of the post. Argentina, meanwhile, kept their cool. Paulo Dybala slotted home their second penalty, and Leandro Paredes confidently dispatched their third. Gonzalo Montiel, the same player whose handball led to France's late penalty, stepped up for Argentina's fourth kick with the chance to win the World Cup. With ice in his veins, Montiel sent Lloris the wrong way, scoring to secure a 4-2 victory in the shootout for Argentina. The stadium erupted. Tears of joy streamed down the faces of Argentine players and fans alike. After years of near misses and agonizing defeats, Lionel Messi had finally achieved his lifelong dream, lifting the World Cup trophy he so richly deserved. It was a moment of pure elation, a culmination of a career defined by unparalleled talent and perseverance. The celebrations were wild, the relief palpable. Argentina were champions of the world once more, and Lionel Messi had cemented his legacy as the greatest footballer of all time. The match was a classic, a fitting end to an incredible tournament, and a testament to the enduring magic of the FIFA World Cup.
