World Cup 2022 Final: Argentina Vs France Highlights

Alright, soccer fans! Let's dive into the exhilarating World Cup 2022 final highlights between Argentina and France. This match was an absolute rollercoaster, packed with drama, stunning goals, and nail-biting moments. If you missed it, or even if you didn't, get ready to relive the magic!

A Clash of Titans: Argentina vs France

The World Cup 2022 final pitted two footballing giants against each other: Lionel Messi's Argentina and Kylian Mbappé's France. Argentina, hungry for their first World Cup title since 1986, came into the match with momentum and a clear game plan. France, the defending champions, were looking to cement their place in history with back-to-back titles. The stage was set for an epic showdown at the Lusail Iconic Stadium in Qatar.

The first half was dominated by Argentina. They came out firing on all cylinders, pressing high and creating chances. Their efforts paid off when Angel Di Maria won a penalty after a clumsy challenge from Ousmane Dembélé. Lionel Messi stepped up and coolly slotted the ball into the net, sending the Argentine fans into raptures. The goal not only gave Argentina the lead but also marked another milestone in Messi's illustrious career.

Argentina didn't stop there. They continued to control the game, and their relentless pressure led to a second goal. This time, it was a beautiful team move that started with a brilliant turn by Messi in midfield. The ball was then passed to Julian Alvarez, who released Di Maria down the left wing. Di Maria finished with a sublime, curling shot past Hugo Lloris, doubling Argentina's lead. At this point, Argentina looked to be in complete control, playing with confidence and swagger.

France, on the other hand, struggled to get going in the first half. Their star players, including Mbappé and Antoine Griezmann, were largely kept quiet by the Argentine defense. The French midfield was also unable to assert their usual dominance, and they looked disjointed and out of sorts. Didier Deschamps, the French coach, recognized the need for change and made two substitutions before halftime, bringing on Marcus Thuram and Randal Kolo Muani in an attempt to inject some life into his team.

Mbappé's Heroics: France's Fightback

The second half saw a dramatic shift in momentum. France, with their backs against the wall, came out with renewed energy and determination. However, for a long period, Argentina managed to stifle the French attack and maintain their two-goal lead. It looked like the game was slowly slipping away from France. Then, in the 79th minute, Kolo Muani was brought down in the box, and France was awarded a penalty. Kylian Mbappé stepped up and emphatically converted, giving France a lifeline.

Just moments later, Mbappé struck again, this time with an incredible volley after a neat one-two with Thuram. Suddenly, the game was level, and the stadium erupted in a cacophony of noise. Mbappé's quickfire double had turned the game on its head and sent shockwaves through the Argentine camp. The momentum had completely shifted, and France were now in the ascendancy. The final minutes of the game were frantic, with both teams pushing for a winner. However, neither side could find a breakthrough, and the match went into extra time.

Extra Time Drama and Penalties

The first half of extra time saw Argentina regain their composure and begin to create chances again. In the 108th minute, Messi scored his second goal of the match, poking the ball home after Lloris had saved from Lautaro Martinez. The goal was initially ruled out for offside, but after a VAR review, it was given, and Argentina were once again in the lead. It seemed like Messi had finally sealed the victory for his team.

But the drama wasn't over yet. In the 118th minute, Mbappé completed his hat-trick, scoring another penalty after a handball by Gonzalo Montiel. The goal made him only the second player in World Cup history to score a hat-trick in the final, after Geoff Hurst in 1966. The game finished 3-3, and penalties were needed to decide the winner.

The penalty shootout was a tense affair. Mbappé and Messi both scored their opening penalties. However, France then missed their second and third penalties, while Argentina converted all of theirs. Montiel, who had conceded the late penalty, stepped up to take the decisive spot-kick and calmly slotted the ball into the net, securing Argentina's victory. The Argentine players and fans erupted in jubilation, while the French players were left heartbroken.

Messi's Crowning Glory: Argentina's Triumph

Argentina's victory was a triumph for Lionel Messi, who finally won the World Cup after years of trying. He had been instrumental throughout the tournament, scoring seven goals and providing numerous assists. The World Cup 2022 final was a fitting stage for him to cement his legacy as one of the greatest players of all time. His performance in the final, with two goals and a successful penalty in the shootout, was truly outstanding.

The victory was also a testament to the Argentine team's spirit and resilience. They had overcome numerous obstacles throughout the tournament, including a shock defeat to Saudi Arabia in their opening match. They had shown great character to bounce back from that setback and go on to win the tournament. The team was built around Messi, but it was also a team effort, with every player contributing to the success.

For France, the defeat was a bitter disappointment. They had come so close to winning back-to-back World Cups, but they ultimately fell short. Mbappé's hat-trick was a remarkable achievement, but it wasn't enough to secure the victory. The French team will be disappointed with their performance in the first half, but they can take pride in their fightback in the second half and extra time.

Key Moments and Talking Points

• Messi's opening penalty: Set the tone for Argentina's dominant first half.
• Di Maria's stunning goal: Doubled Argentina's lead and showcased their attacking prowess.
• Mbappé's quickfire double: Brought France back from the brink and turned the game on its head.
• Messi's extra-time goal: Seemed to have sealed the victory for Argentina.
• Mbappé's hat-trick penalty: Forced the game into a penalty shootout.
• Montiel's winning penalty: Secured Argentina's World Cup triumph.

The highlights of the World Cup 2022 final will be replayed for years to come. It was a match that had everything: goals, drama, controversy, and a fitting ending for one of the greatest players of all time. The game showcased the best of football, with both teams displaying incredible skill, determination, and passion. It was a final that will live long in the memory.

Conclusion: A World Cup Final for the Ages

The soccer World Cup 2022 final highlights between Argentina and France was a truly unforgettable match. It was a game that will be talked about for generations to come, a classic encounter that showcased the very best of football. From Messi's brilliance to Mbappé's heroics, the match was filled with moments of magic. In the end, it was Argentina who emerged victorious, but both teams can be proud of their performances. The World Cup 2022 will be remembered as a tournament of surprises, upsets, and thrilling matches, and the final was the perfect culmination of it all. What a game, guys! What a tournament!