This Sunday, the entire globe will hold its breath for two hours as two grand footballing nations collide in the most anticipated sporting event on the planet. France will defend their throne when they clash heads against Argentina in the World Cup final, with both teams gunning for a third golden star.
With the margins between the two team being incredibly close in terms of quality and skills, the encounter will sealed by the slightest of details. Hence, it’s worth taking a look at the various personal battles which will take place all over the pitch.
So here are five expected key duels between Les Bleus and the Albiceleste which could ultimately determine the winner in the grand finale.
Nicolas Otamendi vs Olivier Giroud
At the respective ages of 34 and 36, few would have expected Nicolas Otamendi and Olivier Giroud to act as protagonists in their nations’ paths towards the World Cup final.
While it remains unclear if Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni will maintain a four-man defense or opt for three at the back, the former Man City centre-back will certainly be a part of the equation regardless of the formation, resulting in a clash against fellow veteran Giroud.
As we all know, Otamendi is tough as nails, but the Milan striker will have a significant height advantage in his favor, so he’ll be looking to pounce on his aerial credentials to score what would be the most important goal in his storied career.
Nahuel Molina vs Kylian Mbappé
As we mentioned above, Scaloni could decide to alternate his formation from 4-4-2 to 3-5-2 for several reasons, with the most obvious one being this particular duel.
At hindsight, this seems to be a clear mismatch between the most explosive attacker in the world and the former Udinese wingback who, despite being excellent when going forward, will most likely struggle to contain the Paris Saint-Germain star.
If the Argentines play with a three-man defense, then Cristian Romero and Nahuel Molina will be able to double-up on Kylian Mbappé. Otherwise, it’s going to be a long afternoon for the Atletico Madrid man.
Enzo Fernandez vs Antoine Griezmann
This one might just be the most intriguing battle in the World Cup final, taking place at the very heart of the action between the young Argentina midfielder and a true France veteran.
Slowly but surely, Enzo Fernandez earned his spot in the starting lineup, especially following his second-half exploits against Mexico. The Benfica man is energetic, explosive and mature beyond his years.
On the other hand, Antoine Griezmann gradually transformed himself form one of the flashiest members of Didier Deschamps’ roster to a midfield work-horse who orchestrate the play while hardly receiving the plaudits he deserves.
Therefore, keeping the 31-year-old at bay is one of the keys to victory for the Copa America champions. Hence, Fernandez will certainly have a paramount role to play on Sunday.
Rodrigo De Paul vs Theo Hernandez
To be fair, we’re not exactly sure if Rodrigo De Paul will be the one to dart the right wing in opposition to Theo Hernandez, as some suggest that Angel Di Maria could make a timely return to the starting formation.
While a battle between the Juventus winger and the Milan fullback would be thrilling for sure, we don’t expect Scaloni to risk the 34-year-old from the get-go, but rather opt for a more conservative choice in the form of the Atletico midfielder.
This one is interesting because it involves two players who are willing to grapple all over the flank. Both men are blessed with incredible technical skills and speed, but also embrace their defensive duties.
Whoever prevails in this duel could tip the scale in favor of his nation.
Lionel Messi vs Raphael Varane
Perhaps the DUEL of all duels in the 2022 World Cup. After derailing the hype train of Josko Gvardiol with an extraordinary performance in the semi-final befitting of his GOAT status, Lionel Messi will now rekindle an affair with a familiar foe in the form of Raphael Varane.
The two men often went head-to-head during the heated Clasico battles between Real Madrid and Barcelona. Coincidentally, they both left Spain in the same summer, halting their rivalry in the process.
Yet, the football gods always have wicked plans in mind, and they decided to reunite Messi and Varane at the grandest stage of them all.
This time around, the French defender won’t be able to rely on the comforting presence of Sergio Ramos by his side. Instead, he has now become the commander-in-chief who’s leading a young backline.
But whether it’s Ibrahima Konaté or Dayot Upamecano in the starting lineup, Deschamps will most likely entrust the experienced Varane with the unpleasant task of marking the six-time Ballon d’Or winner, while the hopes of an entire nation will lie on his broad shoulders.
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