Hey guys! Let's dive into the thrilling highlights of the 2022 World Cup final! This match was an absolute rollercoaster, packed with drama, incredible goals, and nail-biting moments that will be etched in football history forever. Whether you're a die-hard fan or just catching up, we've got you covered with all the key events and unforgettable plays.

Argentina vs. France: A Clash of Titans

The World Cup 2022 final pitted Argentina against France in a battle for the ages. Argentina, led by the legendary Lionel Messi, was determined to secure their first World Cup title since 1986. On the other side, France, the defending champions, aimed to continue their reign and prove their dominance on the global stage. The atmosphere at the Lusail Stadium was electric, with fans from both nations creating an unforgettable spectacle. From the kickoff, it was clear that this match would be a fierce contest, with both teams displaying tactical prowess and unwavering determination.

First Half Dominance

Argentina came out strong, dominating the first half with their relentless pressing and strategic play. Lionel Messi converted a penalty in the 23rd minute, sending Argentinian fans into a frenzy. The penalty was awarded after Ángel Di María was brought down in the box, a clear foul that the referee had no hesitation in calling. Messi, with his signature composure, slotted the ball past Hugo Lloris, giving Argentina an early lead. Just 13 minutes later, in the 36th minute, Ángel Di María himself scored a brilliant goal, extending Argentina's lead to 2-0. The goal was a result of a swift counter-attack, with Di María finishing off a well-coordinated move with a precise strike. France, on the other hand, struggled to find their rhythm, with their star players Kylian Mbappé and Olivier Giroud largely contained by Argentina's disciplined defense. At halftime, Argentina looked firmly in control, leaving many wondering if France could mount a comeback.

France's Remarkable Comeback

The second half saw a dramatic shift in momentum. France, spurred on by their coach Didier Deschamps, came out with renewed energy and determination. Kylian Mbappé stepped up in a big way, proving why he is considered one of the best players in the world. In the 80th minute, Mbappé scored a penalty after a foul in the box, narrowing the deficit to 2-1. The penalty injected new life into the French team and their supporters. Just a minute later, Mbappé scored again, this time with a stunning volley, leveling the score at 2-2. The stadium erupted as France completed an improbable comeback in the blink of an eye. Argentina, who had been so dominant in the first half, suddenly found themselves on the back foot, struggling to contain the relentless attacks of the French team. The final minutes of the second half were a tense affair, with both teams pushing for a winning goal but ultimately unable to break the deadlock, leading to extra time.

Extra Time Thrills

Extra time brought even more drama. In the 108th minute, Lionel Messi scored what appeared to be the winning goal, putting Argentina ahead 3-2. The goal was initially controversial, with some debate over whether the ball had fully crossed the line, but after a VAR review, the goal was confirmed. Argentinian fans erupted in celebration, believing that their team had finally secured the victory. However, France was not ready to give up. In the 118th minute, Kylian Mbappé scored another penalty, completing his hat-trick and leveling the score at 3-3. The penalty was awarded after a handball in the box, and Mbappé calmly converted, sending the game to a penalty shootout. Mbappé's hat-trick was only the second in World Cup final history, cementing his place among the legends of the game. The tension in the stadium was palpable as the match headed to penalties, with the World Cup title hanging in the balance.

Penalty Shootout Heartbreak

The penalty shootout was a nerve-wracking experience for players and fans alike. Argentina emerged victorious, winning the shootout 4-2. Goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez played a crucial role, saving a penalty from Kingsley Coman and unsettling the French penalty takers. Messi, Dybala, Paredes, and Montiel all converted their penalties for Argentina, while Mbappé and Kolo Muani scored for France. However, misses from Coman and Tchouaméni proved costly, handing Argentina the World Cup title. The scenes after the final penalty were emotional, with Argentinian players and fans celebrating wildly, while the French team and their supporters were left heartbroken. Messi, in particular, was overcome with emotion, finally achieving his dream of winning the World Cup.

Key Moments of the Final

To recap, here are the key moments that defined this epic final:

• 23rd Minute: Lionel Messi scores a penalty, putting Argentina ahead 1-0.
• 36th Minute: Ángel Di María scores, extending Argentina's lead to 2-0.
• 80th Minute: Kylian Mbappé scores a penalty, narrowing the deficit to 2-1.
• 81st Minute: Kylian Mbappé scores again, leveling the score at 2-2.
• 108th Minute: Lionel Messi scores, putting Argentina ahead 3-2.
• 118th Minute: Kylian Mbappé scores a penalty, completing his hat-trick and leveling the score at 3-3.
• Penalty Shootout: Argentina wins 4-2.

Messi's Crowning Achievement

This World Cup victory was particularly significant for Lionel Messi. Widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, Messi had long been seeking a World Cup title to cement his legacy. Despite numerous individual accolades and club successes, the World Cup had eluded him until now. His performance throughout the tournament, and especially in the final, was nothing short of extraordinary. He scored seven goals, including two in the final, and provided numerous assists, leading Argentina to victory. The win sparked celebrations around the world, with fans rejoicing in Messi's long-awaited triumph. For many, this victory solidified Messi's status as the greatest footballer of all time, surpassing even the likes of Diego Maradona and Pelé.

Mbappé's Rising Star

While the final was a disappointment for France, Kylian Mbappé's performance was a testament to his incredible talent and potential. At just 23 years old, Mbappé became only the second player in history to score a hat-trick in a World Cup final. His speed, skill, and composure under pressure were on full display, as he almost single-handedly dragged France back into the game. Despite the defeat, Mbappé's performance earned him widespread praise, and he is widely tipped to be the next global superstar of football. His rivalry with players like Erling Haaland promises to define the next decade of the sport, and fans can look forward to many more thrilling performances from the young Frenchman.

The Aftermath and Legacy

The World Cup 2022 final will be remembered as one of the greatest games in football history. The match had everything: drama, goals, controversial decisions, and outstanding individual performances. Argentina's victory marked the end of a 36-year wait for a World Cup title, and it was a fitting tribute to Lionel Messi's incredible career. The celebrations in Argentina were massive, with millions of people taking to the streets to celebrate the victory. For France, the defeat was a bitter pill to swallow, but their performance in the tournament, and especially in the final, showed their resilience and quality. The legacy of the 2022 World Cup final will endure for years to come, inspiring future generations of footballers and fans alike.

So there you have it – a complete rundown of the World Cup 2022 final highlights! What a game, right? Let us know your favorite moments in the comments below!