Argentina Vs France: FIFA World Cup 2022 Full Match Highlights

Guys, let's dive into one of the most epic FIFA World Cup finals in history: the Argentina vs. France match from 2022! This game was an absolute rollercoaster, packed with drama, stunning goals, and nail-biting moments that had fans around the globe on the edge of their seats. If you missed it or just want to relive the magic, buckle up – we're about to break down all the key highlights and unforgettable plays.

The Buildup: Anticipation and Expectations

Before the Argentina vs. France showdown even began, the anticipation was palpable. Argentina, led by the legendary Lionel Messi, were hungry to secure their first World Cup title since 1986. For Messi, it was perhaps his last chance to lift the coveted trophy and cement his legacy as the greatest of all time. The weight of a nation’s dreams rested on his shoulders, and the pressure was immense. Meanwhile, France, the defending champions, boasted a star-studded squad featuring the likes of Kylian Mbappé, Antoine Griezmann, and Olivier Giroud. They were determined to retain their title and prove their dominance on the world stage. Experts and fans alike debated the potential outcomes, analyzing each team's strengths and weaknesses. Argentina's solid midfield and Messi's brilliance were pitted against France's attacking firepower and tactical flexibility. The stage was set for an unforgettable clash of titans. The opening ceremony added to the spectacle, with vibrant displays of Qatari culture and dazzling performances that set the tone for a thrilling final. As the teams walked onto the pitch, the roar of the crowd was deafening, a testament to the global significance of this momentous occasion. Even neutral fans were captivated by the narrative, recognizing the historical implications and the sheer talent on display. The atmosphere was electric, charged with hope, expectation, and a sense of destiny.

First Half Domination: Argentina's Commanding Lead

The first half was all about Argentina. From the get-go, they asserted their dominance, controlling possession and dictating the tempo of the game. In the 23rd minute, Ángel Di María won a penalty after a clumsy challenge from Ousmane Dembélé. Lionel Messi stepped up to take the spot-kick and calmly slotted it home, sending Argentinian fans into raptures. The goal not only gave Argentina the lead but also seemed to inject them with even more confidence. They continued to press forward, and in the 36th minute, they scored a sensational goal on the counter-attack. A brilliant team move, started by Messi, ended with Di María finishing off a sweeping move with a composed finish. Argentina were now 2-0 up, and France looked shell-shocked. The Argentinian midfield, led by Rodrigo De Paul and Enzo Fernández, was winning every battle, stifling France's creativity and protecting their defense. France, on the other hand, struggled to find their rhythm. Their star players were largely anonymous, and their attacking threat was non-existent. Didier Deschamps, the French coach, looked increasingly concerned on the sidelines, knowing that his team needed a drastic change to get back into the game. At halftime, Argentina were firmly in control, playing with a swagger and intensity that France simply couldn't match. The Argentinian fans were in full voice, sensing that their dream of lifting the World Cup trophy was within touching distance. However, as any football fan knows, a two-goal lead is never safe, especially in a World Cup final.

Mbappé's Heroics: France's Dramatic Comeback

France's comeback, spearheaded by Kylian Mbappé, was nothing short of dramatic. For much of the second half, they struggled to break down Argentina's resilient defense. However, in the 79th minute, Mbappé won a penalty after a foul by Nicolás Otamendi. He stepped up and smashed the penalty past Emiliano Martínez, reigniting France's hopes. Just two minutes later, Mbappé scored an absolute screamer, a stunning volley that left Martínez with no chance. Suddenly, the game was level at 2-2, and the momentum had completely shifted. The French fans erupted in celebration, while the Argentinian supporters were left in stunned silence. Mbappé's quickfire double had turned the game on its head, and extra time now seemed inevitable. Argentina, who had been so dominant for so long, looked rattled and struggled to regain their composure. France, buoyed by Mbappé's heroics, pushed for a winner, but Argentina managed to hold on until the end of the 90 minutes. The game had been transformed from a comfortable Argentinian victory into a tense and unpredictable battle. Mbappé's individual brilliance had single-handedly dragged France back into the contest, setting the stage for a thrilling extra time period. His performance was a reminder of his status as one of the world's best players, capable of changing the course of a game in an instant.

Extra Time Thrills: More Goals and More Drama

Extra time was just as thrilling, guys! In the 108th minute, Lionel Messi appeared to have won it for Argentina, scoring from close range after Lautaro Martínez's shot was saved. The Argentinian fans went wild, believing that their team had finally secured the victory. However, France refused to give up, and in the 118th minute, Mbappé completed his hat-trick, scoring another penalty after a handball by Gonzalo Montiel. The game was now 3-3, and Mbappé became only the second player in World Cup history to score a hat-trick in a final, after Geoff Hurst in 1966. The tension was unbearable as both teams battled for a winner in the dying minutes. Randal Kolo Muani had a golden opportunity to win it for France in the final seconds, but his shot was brilliantly saved by Emiliano Martínez. The save was crucial, ensuring that the game would go to a penalty shootout. Extra time had been a rollercoaster of emotions, with both teams trading blows and refusing to be beaten. Messi's second goal had seemed to be the decisive moment, but Mbappé's relentless brilliance had kept France in the game. The stage was now set for a nerve-shredding penalty shootout to decide the World Cup champion.

Penalty Shootout: Argentina's Triumph

The penalty shootout was a nerve-wracking affair. Mbappé and Messi both scored their penalties, but Argentina's goalkeeper, Emiliano Martínez, proved to be the hero. He saved Kingsley Coman's penalty and saw Aurélien Tchouaméni miss, giving Argentina the advantage. Paulo Dybala and Leandro Paredes both converted their penalties, leaving Gonzalo Montiel with the chance to win it for Argentina. Montiel coolly slotted his penalty home, sparking wild celebrations among the Argentinian players and fans. Argentina had won the World Cup for the first time since 1986, and Messi had finally lifted the trophy that had eluded him for so long. The Argentinian players mobbed Messi, celebrating their historic achievement. The scenes of jubilation were incredible, as the players and fans alike rejoiced in their victory. For Messi, it was the crowning moment of his career, solidifying his status as one of the greatest footballers of all time. France, on the other hand, were left heartbroken. Mbappé's hat-trick and heroic performance were not enough to secure the victory, and they had to watch as Argentina lifted the trophy. Despite the defeat, they could be proud of their fighting spirit and their contribution to one of the greatest World Cup finals in history. The penalty shootout had been a fitting end to a match filled with drama, excitement, and unforgettable moments.

Key Moments and Controversies

Throughout the match, there were several key moments and controversies that added to the drama. The penalty awarded to Argentina in the first half was a subject of debate, with some arguing that Di María had exaggerated the contact. However, the referee stood by his decision, and Messi converted the penalty. Another controversial moment was the handball awarded against Montiel in extra time, which led to Mbappé's third penalty. Some felt that the handball was unintentional, but the referee deemed it to be a foul, giving France a lifeline. Emiliano Martínez's save from Kolo Muani in the final seconds of extra time was undoubtedly one of the most crucial moments of the match. The save prevented France from winning the game and ensured that it would go to penalties. Martínez's heroics in the penalty shootout also played a significant role in Argentina's victory. His save from Coman and his gamesmanship tactics were instrumental in unsettling the French penalty takers. These key moments and controversies added to the narrative of the match, making it an unforgettable spectacle for fans around the world. The decisions made by the referee were constantly scrutinized, and the debates surrounding these incidents continued long after the final whistle.

Conclusion: A World Cup Final for the Ages

The Argentina vs. France FIFA World Cup 2022 final will forever be etched in football history. It was a match filled with everything that makes football great: incredible goals, dramatic comebacks, controversial decisions, and unforgettable moments of individual brilliance. Lionel Messi finally achieved his dream of winning the World Cup, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest players of all time. Kylian Mbappé's hat-trick was a testament to his incredible talent and potential. The game was a true spectacle, showcasing the passion, drama, and excitement that make the World Cup such a special event. Whether you're an Argentina fan, a France supporter, or just a lover of the game, this match will be remembered for years to come. It was a fitting end to a memorable tournament, and it provided a reminder of the power of football to unite and inspire people around the world. So guys, let's raise a glass to Argentina, to France, and to the beautiful game of football! This World Cup final was truly one for the ages!