World Cup 2022 Final: Argentina Vs. France Highlights
Hey guys! Let's dive into the thrilling World Cup 2022 final highlights. This match was an absolute rollercoaster, filled with drama, stunning goals, and a nail-biting penalty shootout. Whether you're a die-hard football fan or just catching up, you're in for a treat. Letâs break down the key moments and unforgettable plays that made this final one for the ages.
A Clash of Titans: Argentina vs. France
The World Cup 2022 final pitted two footballing giants against each other: Argentina, led by the legendary Lionel Messi, and France, the reigning champions spearheaded by the phenomenal Kylian Mbappé. The anticipation was palpable, with fans around the globe eagerly waiting to see who would lift the coveted trophy. Both teams had navigated a challenging path to the final, showcasing their skill, resilience, and tactical prowess.
Argentina's Dominant First Half
Argentina came out of the blocks firing on all cylinders. Their game plan was clear: dominate possession, control the midfield, and create opportunities for Messi and his fellow attackers. They executed this strategy to perfection in the first half. The Argentinian midfield, with players like Rodrigo De Paul and Enzo FernĂĄndez, stifled France's creative outlets and dictated the tempo of the game. This dominance allowed Argentina to create several scoring chances.
Messi's Early Impact
Lionel Messi made an immediate impact, winning a penalty in the 23rd minute after Ăngel Di MarĂa was brought down in the box. Messi coolly slotted the penalty past Hugo Lloris, sending the Argentinian fans into raptures. This goal not only gave Argentina the lead but also set the tone for their dominant performance. Messi's influence extended beyond the goal; his intelligent movement and incisive passing kept the French defense on their toes.
Di MarĂa's Stunning Goal
Argentina doubled their lead in the 36th minute with a breathtaking counter-attack. Messi was, as usual, at the heart of it, playing a sublime pass to JuliĂĄn Ălvarez, who then released Di MarĂa on the left wing. Di MarĂa, with his pace and trickery, cut inside and curled a magnificent shot past Lloris into the far corner. It was a goal of sheer beauty and a testament to Argentina's attacking fluidity. At this point, Argentina looked firmly in control, and France appeared shell-shocked.
France's Remarkable Comeback
Despite being outplayed for much of the game, France showed their champion's spirit with a stunning late comeback. Trailing 2-0, they found a spark through the brilliance of Kylian Mbappé, who almost single-handedly dragged his team back into the contest. This comeback was a testament to France's never-say-die attitude and their ability to capitalize on any lapse in concentration from their opponents.
Mbappé's Penalty and Equalizer
In the 79th minute, France was awarded a penalty after Randal Kolo Muani was fouled in the box. Kylian MbappĂ© stepped up and confidently dispatched the penalty, reducing the deficit to 2-1. Just two minutes later, MbappĂ© scored a sensational equalizer. After a brilliant one-two with Marcus Thuram, MbappĂ© unleashed a stunning volley that left Emiliano MartĂnez with no chance. In the blink of an eye, the game was tied, and the momentum had completely shifted.
Extra Time Drama
With the score level at 2-2, the game went into extra time, where the drama continued to unfold. Both teams pushed for a winner, creating several tense moments and near misses. The physical and mental fatigue was evident, but neither side was willing to give an inch.
Messi's Second Goal
In the 108th minute, Messi appeared to have sealed the victory for Argentina. After Lloris saved from Lautaro MartĂnez, Messi was on hand to poke the rebound over the line. The goal was initially ruled out for offside, but after a VAR review, it was confirmed, sending the Argentinian fans into delirium once again. This goal seemed to be the decisive moment, but France had other ideas.
Mbappé's Hat-Trick
In the 118th minute, France was awarded another penalty after Mbappé's shot was handled in the box. Mbappé stepped up once again and completed his hat-trick, becoming only the second player in World Cup history to score a hat-trick in a final, after Geoff Hurst in 1966. The score was now 3-3, and the game was heading to a penalty shootout.
The Penalty Shootout
The penalty shootout was a nerve-wracking affair, with both teams feeling the immense pressure. Argentina emerged victorious, winning the shootout 4-2. Emiliano MartĂnez proved to be the hero, saving Kingsley Coman's penalty and unsettling AurĂ©lien TchouamĂ©ni, who missed his spot-kick. Argentina converted all four of their penalties, with Messi, Paulo Dybala, Leandro Paredes, and Gonzalo Montiel all scoring.
Key Moments in the Shootout
- Argentina's Composure: Argentina's penalty takers showed remarkable composure, calmly slotting their penalties past Lloris. This composure was crucial in maintaining their lead and putting pressure on the French players.
- MartĂnez's Heroics: Emiliano MartĂnez's save from Kingsley Coman was a pivotal moment in the shootout. His psychological tactics also played a role in TchouamĂ©ni's miss.
- France's Misses: France's misses from Coman and TchouamĂ©ni proved costly. These misses were a result of a combination of pressure and MartĂnez's goalkeeping prowess.
Conclusion: A Final for the Ages
The World Cup 2022 final between Argentina and France was a truly unforgettable match. It had everything: goals, drama, controversy, and a penalty shootout. Argentina's victory was a fitting end to Messi's World Cup career, as he finally lifted the trophy that had eluded him for so long. France, despite their defeat, showed their quality and resilience, and Mbappé's performance was one for the ages.
This final will be remembered as one of the greatest in World Cup history, a testament to the beauty and drama of football. It was a match that showcased the skill, passion, and determination of both teams, and it will be talked about for years to come. What a game, guys! The World Cup 2022 final truly delivered a spectacle that captivated the world.
