Argentina Vs France 2022: Full Match Highlights

Relive the epic Argentina vs. France 2022 World Cup final! This match was an instant classic, filled with drama, stunning goals, and nail-biting moments. From Messi's early penalty to Mbappe's hat-trick, and the heart-stopping penalty shootout, we'll dive into all the key highlights. Guys, get ready to relive the magic of this unforgettable game!

A Clash of Titans: The Stage is Set

The 2022 World Cup Final between Argentina and France was more than just a game; it was a clash of titans. Argentina, led by the legendary Lionel Messi, were on a quest to end their decades-long wait for a World Cup trophy. France, the defending champions spearheaded by the young phenom Kylian Mbappe, aimed to cement their place as the dominant force in world football. The atmosphere at the Lusail Stadium was electric, with fans from both nations creating a cacophony of sound and color. Before the match, all eyes were on Messi, who had announced that this would be his last World Cup. The weight of a nation's expectations rested on his shoulders. Meanwhile, Mbappe, at just 23 years old, was looking to add another World Cup title to his already impressive resume. He represented the new generation of footballing superstars, eager to challenge Messi's throne. The tactical battle between the two teams was also highly anticipated. Argentina, under coach Lionel Scaloni, had built a well-organized and resilient team, while France, managed by Didier Deschamps, possessed an abundance of attacking talent. The stage was set for an epic encounter, a match that would be etched in the annals of football history.

First Half Domination: Argentina's Early Lead

The first half of the final saw Argentina come out firing on all cylinders. They dominated possession, pressed relentlessly, and created numerous scoring opportunities. Their efforts paid off when Angel Di Maria won a penalty in the 23rd minute. Lionel Messi stepped up to the spot and coolly slotted the ball into the net, sending the Argentine fans into raptures. Argentina continued to pile on the pressure, and in the 36th minute, they doubled their lead with a stunning team goal. A flowing move, started by Messi, ended with Di Maria finishing off a brilliant counter-attack. France, on the other hand, looked completely out of sorts. Their midfield was overrun, their attack was toothless, and they struggled to cope with Argentina's intensity. Mbappe was largely anonymous, and the defending champions failed to register a single shot on target in the first half. Coach Deschamps looked increasingly frustrated on the sidelines, knowing that he needed to make drastic changes to turn the game around. At halftime, Argentina led 2-0, and it looked like they were well on their way to lifting the World Cup trophy.

Mbappe's Heroics: France Mounts a Comeback

The second half was a different story altogether. France came out with renewed energy and determination, spurred on by the need to rescue their World Cup dream. However, for a long period, Argentina managed to keep France at bay. That all changed in the 79th minute when Kylian Mbappe won a penalty after a clumsy challenge. He converted the penalty himself, giving France a lifeline. Just two minutes later, Mbappe struck again with a stunning volley, leveling the score and sending the French fans into delirium. Suddenly, the momentum had shifted completely. Argentina, who had been in control for so long, were now reeling from the shock of France's comeback. The game became end-to-end, with both teams trading attacks. Messi had a few chances to restore Argentina's lead, but he was unable to find the back of the net. Mbappe continued to be a constant threat, using his pace and skill to torment the Argentine defense. The final minutes of the second half were filled with drama and tension, as both teams desperately searched for a winning goal. But neither side could break the deadlock, and the game went into extra time.

Extra Time Drama: Twists and Turns

Extra time was a rollercoaster of emotions. In the 108th minute, Lionel Messi appeared to have sealed the victory for Argentina, scoring from close range after a goalmouth scramble. The Argentine fans erupted in celebration, believing that their long wait was finally over. But France refused to give up. In the 118th minute, Mbappe completed his hat-trick, scoring another penalty after a handball in the box. This made him only the second player in World Cup history to score a hat-trick in a final, after Geoff Hurst in 1966. The game was now tied at 3-3, and the tension was almost unbearable. In the dying seconds of extra time, both teams had chances to win it. Kolo Muani had a golden opportunity for France, but his shot was brilliantly saved by Emiliano Martinez. Argentina then had a chance on the counter-attack, but they couldn't capitalize. The whistle blew, and the game went to a penalty shootout.

Penalty Shootout: Argentina's Triumph

The penalty shootout was a nerve-wracking affair. Mbappe scored France's first penalty, while Messi also converted for Argentina. However, France then missed their next two penalties, with Emiliano Martinez saving Coman's effort and Tchouameni shooting wide. Argentina, on the other hand, scored their first three penalties, putting them in a commanding position. When Montiel stepped up to take Argentina's fourth penalty, he knew that a goal would win them the World Cup. He kept his cool and slotted the ball into the net, sparking scenes of wild jubilation among the Argentine players and fans. Argentina had won the World Cup for the first time since 1986! The players mobbed Messi, lifting him into the air as they celebrated their historic triumph. It was a fitting end to Messi's World Cup career, as he finally achieved the one trophy that had eluded him for so long. The scenes of joy and celebration in Argentina were incredible, as millions of people took to the streets to celebrate their heroes' victory. For France, it was a heartbreaking defeat, but they could be proud of their valiant effort and Mbappe's incredible performance. He won the Golden Boot award, as the top goalscorer. The Argentina vs. France 2022 World Cup Final will forever be remembered as one of the greatest games in football history.

Key Moments and Highlights Recap

To recap the key moments and highlights:

• Messi's Penalty (23'): Set the tone for Argentina's dominance.
• Di Maria's Goal (36'): A brilliant team goal showcasing Argentina's attacking prowess.
• Mbappe's Penalty (79'): Sparked France's incredible comeback.
• Mbappe's Volley (81'): A stunning equalizer that changed the game's momentum.
• Messi's Second Goal (108'): Seemingly secured Argentina's victory in extra time.
• Mbappe's Third Penalty (118'): Completed his hat-trick and forced a penalty shootout.
• Martinez's Save on Coman's Penalty: A crucial save in the shootout.
• Montiel's Winning Penalty: Sealed Argentina's World Cup triumph.

This match had everything, guys! Amazing goals, dramatic twists, and unforgettable moments. It's a game that will be talked about for generations to come. The Argentina vs. France 2022 World Cup final: A true classic!