Argentina Vs France: World Cup Final Live Score Updates
Introduction
The Argentina vs. France World Cup final was one for the ages! Guys, what a match! If you missed it, or just want to relive the excitement, let's dive into a recap of the live scores and key moments of this epic showdown. This match was more than just a game; it was a clash of titans, a battle for legacy, and a testament to the beautiful game's power to unite and thrill. From Messi's quest for his crowning achievement to Mbappe's ambition to defend the title, every moment was filled with drama and anticipation. In this article, we'll dissect the match, reliving the goals, the saves, the controversies, and the sheer emotion that made this final an instant classic. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a casual observer, get ready to immerse yourself in the unforgettable narrative of Argentina's triumph over France in the 2022 World Cup final. It was held at Lusail Stadium in Qatar on December 18, 2022, and it pitted two of the world's top footballing nations against each other. Argentina, led by Lionel Messi, was looking to win their first World Cup title since 1986, while France, spearheaded by Kylian Mbappé, aimed to defend their crown from 2018. The match was a rollercoaster of emotions, filled with twists and turns that kept fans on the edge of their seats until the very end.
First Half: Argentina Dominates
Argentina came out strong, dominating possession and creating several scoring opportunities. Lionel Messi, in what was likely his last World Cup match, looked determined to finally lift the trophy. Argentina's dominance in the first half was a masterclass in tactical execution and relentless pressure. From the kickoff, they seized control of the midfield, dictating the tempo of the game and suffocating France's attempts to build any meaningful attacks. The Argentinian players moved with a fluidity and purpose, their passes crisp and precise, their movements synchronized like a well-oiled machine. Messi, the maestro of the team, orchestrated the attacks with his mesmerizing dribbling and incisive passes, constantly probing the French defense for weaknesses. The French, on the other hand, looked disjointed and out of sorts, struggling to cope with Argentina's intensity and struggling to find any rhythm in their play. Their usually reliable midfield was overrun, and their forwards were isolated and unable to make any impact. The Argentinian defense stood firm, denying France any clear-cut chances and frustrating their attempts to get back into the game. Argentina's dominance was not just about possession; it was about intent and execution. They pressed high up the pitch, forcing France into errors and winning back possession in dangerous areas. They attacked with pace and purpose, creating numerous scoring opportunities and testing the French goalkeeper. It was a complete performance that showcased Argentina's hunger and determination to win the World Cup.
Messi's Penalty
In the 23rd minute, Argentina was awarded a penalty after Ăngel Di MarĂa was brought down in the box. Messi stepped up and calmly slotted the ball into the net, giving Argentina a 1-0 lead. This goal marked another milestone in Messi's illustrious career, further cementing his status as one of the greatest players of all time. The penalty itself was a moment of high drama, with the entire stadium holding its breath as Messi prepared to take the spot-kick. The weight of a nation rested on his shoulders, and the pressure was immense. But Messi, as he has done so many times before, remained cool and composed, focusing solely on the task at hand. His eyes were locked on the ball, his movements deliberate and precise. As he struck the ball, it flew past the French goalkeeper and into the back of the net, sending the Argentinian fans into raptures. The stadium erupted in a cacophony of cheers and applause, as Messi celebrated with his teammates, the relief and joy evident on his face. The goal was not just a personal triumph for Messi; it was a symbol of Argentina's dominance in the match and a sign of their unwavering belief in their ability to win the World Cup. It was a moment that will forever be etched in the memories of Argentinian fans, a reminder of Messi's genius and his unwavering dedication to his country.
Di MarĂa's Goal
Argentina extended their lead in the 36th minute with a brilliant counter-attack. Di MarĂa finished off a sweeping move with a composed finish, making it 2-0. This goal was a testament to Argentina's attacking prowess and their ability to execute quick and decisive counter-attacks. The move started with a clearance from the Argentinian defense, which was quickly picked up by one of their midfielders. With lightning speed, they launched a counter-attack, surging forward with pace and purpose. The French defense was caught off guard, struggling to track the Argentinian attackers as they weaved their way through the midfield. Di MarĂa, who had been a constant threat throughout the first half, found himself in space on the left wing. He received a perfectly weighted pass and cut inside, leaving the French defender trailing in his wake. With a deft touch, he controlled the ball and unleashed a powerful shot towards the goal. The French goalkeeper was unable to react in time, and the ball nestled into the back of the net, sending the Argentinian fans into delirium. The goal was a masterpiece of attacking football, showcasing Argentina's speed, precision, and clinical finishing. It was a moment that highlighted their superiority in the match and solidified their position as the team in control. Di MarĂa's composed finish was the icing on the cake, a testament to his skill and composure under pressure.
Second Half: France Mounts a 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. They started to press higher up the pitch and create more chances. The second half was a tale of two halves, as France staged a remarkable comeback to level the score and take the game to extra time. After a lackluster first half, the French team emerged from the dressing room with a renewed sense of purpose and determination. They upped the tempo of their game, pressing higher up the pitch and attacking with greater intensity. The introduction of fresh legs off the bench injected new energy into the team, and they began to create more chances in the final third. The Argentinian defense, which had been so solid in the first half, started to creak under the pressure, as France launched wave after wave of attacks. The French midfield, which had been overrun in the first half, began to assert themselves, winning back possession and dictating the flow of the game. Mbappé, who had been largely anonymous in the first half, came alive in the second, using his pace and skill to terrorize the Argentinian defense. The momentum of the game shifted dramatically, as France seized control and began to dominate possession. The Argentinian players looked increasingly tired and frustrated, struggling to cope with France's relentless pressure. The French fans, who had been subdued in the first half, found their voice and began to cheer their team on with renewed vigor. The atmosphere in the stadium crackled with electricity, as the tension mounted and the game hung in the balance. France's comeback was a testament to their resilience and determination, and it set the stage for a thrilling finale.
Mbappé's Penalty and Equalizer
In the 79th minute, France was awarded a penalty after Kolo Muani was fouled. Mbappé stepped up and scored, reducing the deficit to 2-1. Just two minutes later, Mbappé scored again with a stunning volley, leveling the score at 2-2. These two quick goals completely changed the complexion of the game. Mbappé's penalty was a moment of immense pressure, as he stepped up to take the spot-kick with his team trailing by two goals. The weight of a nation rested on his shoulders, and the expectations were sky-high. But Mbappé, unfazed by the pressure, remained calm and composed, focusing solely on the task at hand. His eyes were locked on the ball, his movements deliberate and precise. As he struck the ball, it flew past the Argentinian goalkeeper and into the back of the net, igniting a spark of hope among the French fans. The stadium erupted in cheers and applause, as Mbappé celebrated with his teammates, the relief and joy evident on his face. The goal was not just a personal triumph for Mbappé; it was a symbol of France's resilience and determination to fight back. Just two minutes later, Mbappé struck again, this time with a stunning volley that left the Argentinian defense in disbelief. The ball was crossed into the box, and Mbappé, with incredible athleticism and technique, leaped into the air and unleashed a powerful volley that flew past the goalkeeper and into the back of the net. The stadium exploded in a frenzy of excitement, as the French fans celebrated wildly. Mbappé's two quick goals completely changed the complexion of the game, turning the tide in France's favor and setting the stage for a thrilling finale.
Extra Time: More Drama
The game went into extra time, and the drama continued. Both teams pushed for a winner, creating several nervous moments for their respective fans. The extra time period was a rollercoaster of emotions, as both teams traded blows and came close to scoring the winning goal. The tension in the stadium was palpable, as the fans held their breath with every attack. The Argentinian players, who had looked tired and frustrated in the second half, found a new lease of life in extra time, spurred on by their desire to win the World Cup. They pushed forward with renewed vigor, creating several scoring opportunities and testing the French defense. The French players, who had been riding high on their comeback in the second half, remained resilient, defending stoutly and launching counter-attacks whenever possible. The game flowed from end to end, with both teams displaying incredible athleticism and determination. The goalkeepers were called into action on several occasions, making crucial saves to keep their teams in the game. The atmosphere in the stadium was electric, as the fans roared their teams on, creating an unforgettable spectacle. Extra time was a testament to the fighting spirit of both teams, as they refused to give up and battled until the very end.
Messi's Second Goal
In the 108th minute, Messi scored his second goal of the match, putting Argentina ahead 3-2. However, the goal was controversial, as some argued that Mbappé was fouled in the build-up. Messi's second goal of the match was a moment of pure brilliance, showcasing his incredible skill and determination. The goal came after a period of sustained pressure from Argentina, who were desperate to regain the lead. The ball was played into the box, and after a goalmouth scramble, Messi was on hand to poke the ball into the net from close range. The Argentinian fans erupted in jubilation, as they believed that their team had finally secured the victory. However, the goal was immediately met with controversy, as some argued that Mbappé had been fouled in the build-up to the goal. Replays showed that there may have been contact between an Argentinian player and Mbappé, but the referee waved away the protests and allowed the goal to stand. The French players were furious, arguing that the goal should have been disallowed. The controversy added another layer of drama to the already enthralling match, and it sparked a heated debate among fans and pundits alike. Despite the controversy, Messi's goal stood, and Argentina regained the lead, setting the stage for a tense final few minutes of extra time.
Mbappé's Hat-Trick Penalty
Just when it seemed Argentina had sealed the win, France was awarded another penalty in the 118th minute after a handball. Mbappé completed his hat-trick, making it 3-3. Incredible! Mbappé's hat-trick penalty was a moment of sheer brilliance and composure under immense pressure. With the score tied at 3-2 in favor of Argentina, France was awarded a penalty in the dying minutes of extra time, giving them a lifeline to stay in the game. The responsibility fell on Mbappé's shoulders to convert the penalty and keep France's hopes alive. As he stepped up to take the spot-kick, the weight of a nation rested on his shoulders. The tension in the stadium was palpable, as the fans held their breath, waiting to see if he could deliver. Mbappé remained calm and focused, blocking out the noise and pressure around him. With a cool and collected demeanor, he struck the ball with precision and power, sending it past the Argentinian goalkeeper and into the back of the net. The stadium erupted in a frenzy of excitement, as the French fans celebrated wildly. Mbappé had completed his hat-trick, becoming only the second player in World Cup history to score a hat-trick in the final. His penalty not only leveled the score but also showcased his incredible skill, mental strength, and ability to perform under pressure. It was a moment that will forever be etched in the memories of football fans around the world, a testament to Mbappé's brilliance and his unwavering determination to succeed.
Penalty Shootout: Argentina Wins!
The match went to a penalty shootout. Argentina won 4-2, with Messi scoring his penalty. Argentina are the World Cup champions! The penalty shootout was a nail-biting affair, filled with tension and drama, as both teams battled for the ultimate prize. After 120 minutes of thrilling football, the score remained tied at 3-3, forcing the game to be decided by a penalty shootout. The pressure on the players was immense, as they stepped up to take their spot-kicks, knowing that each kick could be the difference between victory and defeat. The Argentinian players showed nerves of steel, converting all four of their penalties with precision and composure. Messi, as always, led by example, calmly slotting his penalty into the net, setting the tone for his team. The French players, on the other hand, faltered under the pressure, missing two of their penalties, handing the advantage to Argentina. The Argentinian goalkeeper, Emiliano MartĂnez, emerged as the hero of the shootout, making a crucial save to deny France's Kingsley Coman. As Argentina scored their final penalty, the stadium erupted in jubilation, as the Argentinian players and fans celebrated their victory. The penalty shootout was a fitting end to a thrilling match, showcasing the drama, tension, and excitement that make football the world's most beloved sport. Argentina's victory was a testament to their skill, determination, and resilience, as they overcame numerous obstacles to lift the coveted World Cup trophy.
Conclusion
The Argentina vs. France final was an instant classic, filled with drama, excitement, and incredible goals. Congratulations to Argentina on their World Cup victory! This match will be remembered for years to come as one of the greatest World Cup finals of all time. The Argentina vs. France final was more than just a game; it was a spectacle that captivated the world. It was a clash of two footballing giants, a battle between two of the greatest players of their generation, and a showcase of the beautiful game at its finest. The match had everything: goals, drama, controversy, and a nail-biting penalty shootout. It was a game that will be talked about for years to come, a reminder of the magic and excitement that football can bring. Argentina's victory was a triumph for Messi, who finally lifted the World Cup trophy after years of heartbreak. It was a victory for the Argentinian fans, who had waited so long to see their team crowned world champions. And it was a victory for football, a reminder of the power of the game to unite and inspire people around the world. The Argentina vs. France final was a game that will live long in the memory, a testament to the enduring appeal of football and its ability to create unforgettable moments.
