Argentina Vs France: 2022 World Cup Final - Full Match Highlights
Relive the epic Argentina vs. France 2022 World Cup final with English commentary! This article dives deep into the thrilling match, providing a comprehensive overview for fans who want to experience the excitement again or catch up on what they missed. We'll break down the key moments, analyze the strategies, and celebrate the unforgettable performances that made this final one for the ages. Get ready to immerse yourself in the drama, the skill, and the sheer emotion of this historic clash between two footballing giants.
A Clash of Titans: Setting the Stage
The 2022 World Cup final between Argentina and France was more than just a game; it was a collision of destinies. Argentina, led by the legendary Lionel Messi, sought to end their decades-long wait for a World Cup title, a quest that carried the hopes of a nation. For Messi, it was perhaps his last chance to cement his legacy as the greatest of all time by finally lifting the coveted trophy. France, the defending champions, aimed to become only the third team in history to win back-to-back World Cups, a feat that would solidify their place among the game's elite. With stars like Kylian Mbappé leading the charge, Les Bleus possessed the firepower and tactical prowess to challenge Argentina's dominance.
The atmosphere surrounding the match was electric, with fans from both nations creating a vibrant and passionate spectacle at the Lusail Iconic Stadium in Qatar. Millions more tuned in from around the globe, eager to witness history unfold. The pre-match build-up was filled with anticipation, as pundits and fans alike debated the potential strategies and key matchups that would determine the outcome. Would Argentina's midfield control the tempo? Could France's defense contain Messi's magic? These were the questions on everyone's minds as the two teams prepared to battle for the ultimate prize in football.
The stakes were incredibly high, adding immense pressure to both sides. Argentina, driven by the unwavering support of their fans and the burning desire to deliver a World Cup title for Messi, carried the weight of expectation on their shoulders. France, accustomed to success on the international stage, were determined to prove their status as the reigning world champions. The weight of history, the hopes of entire nations, and the legacies of individual players all converged on this single match, creating an atmosphere of unparalleled intensity.
First Half Domination: Argentina Takes Control
The first half of the final was a masterclass in tactical execution by Argentina. From the kickoff, they asserted their dominance, controlling possession and dictating the tempo of the game. Their midfield, led by the tireless Rodrigo De Paul and the creative Enzo FernĂĄndez, effectively stifled France's attacking threats and provided a solid platform for Argentina's own attacks. Lionel Messi, playing with a sense of purpose and determination, was instrumental in orchestrating Argentina's offensive moves, constantly probing the French defense and creating opportunities for his teammates.
Argentina's early pressure paid off in the 23rd minute when Ăngel Di MarĂa won a penalty after a clumsy challenge from Ousmane DembĂ©lĂ©. Messi stepped up to the spot and calmly slotted the ball past Hugo Lloris, sending the Argentine fans into raptures. The goal sparked even more confidence in the Argentine side, who continued to press forward with relentless energy. Di MarĂa, proving to be a constant menace to the French defense, doubled Argentina's lead in the 36th minute with a stunning counter-attacking goal. After a brilliant team move, Di MarĂa finished with a composed finish, leaving Lloris with no chance. At this point, Argentina looked to be in complete control of the final, playing with a swagger and confidence that suggested they were destined to lift the trophy.
France, on the other hand, appeared shell-shocked by Argentina's dominance. Their usually fluid attacking play was stifled by Argentina's well-organized defense, and their midfield struggled to gain control of the game. Kylian Mbappé, the star of the French team, was largely anonymous in the first half, struggling to find space and time on the ball. Didier Deschamps, the French coach, recognized the need for a 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. However, despite these changes, France continued to struggle, and Argentina went into halftime with a comfortable 2-0 lead.
Mbappé's Heroics: France Mounts a Stunning Comeback
The second half saw a dramatic shift in momentum as France, spurred on by the urgency of the situation, mounted a stunning comeback. Mbappé, who had been quiet in the first half, exploded into life, showcasing his incredible pace, skill, and finishing ability. France's change in tactics, with more direct balls into the attacking third and a greater emphasis on exploiting the flanks, began to trouble the Argentine defense. The introduction of Kolo Muani added a new dimension to France's attack, providing a physical presence and a willingness to run at the Argentine defenders.
The turning point of the second half came in the 79th minute when Kolo Muani was fouled in the box, giving France a penalty. Mbappé stepped up and coolly converted, reigniting France's hopes of a comeback. Just moments later, Mbappé scored again, this time with a sensational volley after a brilliant one-two with Thuram. In the space of two minutes, Mbappé had single-handedly erased Argentina's two-goal lead, leaving the Argentine fans in disbelief. The momentum had completely shifted, and France were now in the ascendancy.
The final minutes of the second half were filled with tension and drama, as both teams pushed for a winning goal. Argentina, reeling from France's quickfire comeback, struggled to regain their composure. Messi, despite his best efforts, was unable to unlock the French defense. France, buoyed by their newfound confidence, continued to press forward, but Argentina managed to hold on, forcing the game into extra time. Mbappé's heroics had rescued France from the brink of defeat, but the game was far from over.
Extra Time Thriller: Goals, Drama, and More
The intensity of the match only increased in extra time, with both teams trading blows in a relentless pursuit of victory. Argentina regained the lead in the 108th minute when Messi, after a goalmouth scramble, poked the ball over the line. The goal was initially disallowed for offside, but after a VAR review, it was confirmed, sending the Argentine fans into ecstasy once again. However, France refused to give up, and in the 118th minute, Mbappé completed his hat-trick with another penalty after a handball by Gonzalo Montiel. Mbappé became only the second player in World Cup history to score a hat-trick in the final, joining Geoff Hurst, who achieved the feat for England in 1966. The game was now tied at 3-3, with just minutes remaining.
The dying moments of extra time were filled with heart-stopping moments. Kolo Muani had a golden opportunity to win the game for France, but his shot was brilliantly saved by Emiliano MartĂnez. At the other end, Lautaro MartĂnez, who had come on as a substitute, fired just wide of the post. The game was a rollercoaster of emotions, with both teams pushing themselves to the limit. With no further goals, the final went to a penalty shootout, the ultimate test of nerve and composure.
Penalty Shootout: Argentina Secures the Crown
The penalty shootout was a tense and dramatic affair, with both sets of players feeling the immense pressure of the moment. MbappĂ© scored France's first penalty, but Messi responded with a successful penalty of his own. Kingsley Coman then had his penalty saved by MartĂnez, giving Argentina the advantage. Paulo Dybala, who had come on specifically for the shootout, calmly slotted home Argentina's second penalty. AurĂ©lien TchouamĂ©ni then missed France's second penalty, putting Argentina in a commanding position. Leandro Paredes scored Argentina's third penalty, leaving Montiel with the chance to win the World Cup for Argentina. Montiel, who had conceded the penalty that allowed MbappĂ© to complete his hat-trick, showed incredible composure to slot the ball past Lloris, securing Argentina's first World Cup title since 1986.
The scenes that followed were ones of unbridled joy and celebration as the Argentine players and fans erupted in jubilation. Messi, finally achieving his lifelong dream, was mobbed by his teammates as they lifted him onto their shoulders. The victory was a testament to Argentina's resilience, determination, and unwavering belief in themselves. For France, it was a heartbreaking defeat, but they could take pride in their incredible comeback and the brilliance of Mbappé, who had cemented his status as one of the game's brightest stars. The 2022 World Cup final will forever be remembered as one of the greatest games in football history, a thrilling encounter filled with drama, excitement, and unforgettable moments.
The Legacy of a Classic
The Argentina vs. France 2022 World Cup final was more than just a game; it was a spectacle that captivated the world and will be talked about for generations to come. The match showcased the beauty, drama, and unpredictability of football at its finest. From Argentina's first-half dominance to France's stunning comeback, the game was a rollercoaster of emotions that kept fans on the edge of their seats until the very end. The performances of Messi and Mbappé, two of the greatest players of their generation, added to the allure of the final, creating a narrative that transcended the sport itself.
The final will also be remembered for its tactical nuances, the resilience of both teams, and the sheer determination of the players to win. Argentina's tactical masterclass in the first half, their ability to control possession and stifle France's attacking threats, was a testament to their coach Lionel Scaloni's astute planning. France's comeback, spurred on by Mbappé's brilliance and Deschamps' tactical changes, demonstrated their never-say-die attitude. The game was a reminder that in football, anything is possible, and that even when faced with seemingly insurmountable odds, teams can find a way to fight back.
Ultimately, the 2022 World Cup final will be remembered as a classic, a game that encapsulates the passion, drama, and excitement of football. It was a match that will be replayed and analyzed for years to come, a testament to the enduring power of the beautiful game. Whether you're an Argentina fan, a France supporter, or simply a lover of football, the 2022 World Cup final is a game that will stay with you forever.