Argentina came out on top of a nerve-shredding penalty shootout to sink reigning World Cup champions France in one of the most exciting finals ever. Following an action-packed 3-3 draw, La Albiceleste showed more composure when it mattered the most to win the prize.
Argentina have gone from strength to strength since shockingly losing to Saudi Arabia on matchday one, racking up five successive wins, four of which came within regulation time. Lionel Scaloni’s men couldn’t have timed their rise to prominence any better. Inspired by Lionel Messi and Julian Alvarez’s brace, La Albiceleste thumped Croatia, the beaten finalists from 2018, 3-0 in the semifinals to set up this mouth-watering final.
As one of the greatest players of all time, Messi headed into the Lusail Iconic Stadium showpiece seeking a career-defining achievement that would put him on a pair with Argentina legend Diego Maradona. Following a heartbreaking 1-0 defeat to Germany in the 2014 title decider, La Pulga knew Sunday’s fixture was his last shot at World Cup glory.
He acted accordingly, slotting home an early penalty to fire Argentina 1-0 up with just 23 minutes on the clock. Scaloni’s side came flying out of the traps and found a well-deserved lead through their talismanic captain. Only 13 minutes later, the South Americans orchestrated a stellar counter-attack to double their lead through Angel Di Maria.
Even though France failed to produce a single shot until the 70th minute, Kylian Mbappe took the stage late in the game, notching a quick-fire brace to sent the final into extra time. Messi latched onto a loose ball inside the box to restore Argentina’s lead in the 109th minute, but Mbappe’s spot-kick in the 118th minute secured penalties, where La Albiceleste prevailed.
In addition to bringing the Jules Rimet trophy home for the first time since 1986, Argentina helped their star player Messi draw a new page in the history books.
Argentina (4-3-3)
Emiliano Martinez – 7
Once again came up huge in the shootout to inspire Argentina to the most significant trophy in international football. Besides, his phenomenal save to deny Randal Kolo Muani in the 121st minute sent the match to penalties.
Nahuel Molina – 6
Did an exquisite job keeping Mbappe quiet for most of the game, yet he slipped his mark a few times, which was enough for the Frenchman to score a hat-trick.
Nicolas Otamendi – 7
Another rock-solid performance from one of the most experienced players in the Argentina line-up.
Cristian Romero – 7
The former Atalanta man followed the example of his senior defensive colleague, putting on an impressive display.
Nicolas Tagliafiaco – 6
Despite failing to show much in the front third, he was reliable at the back, especially against Ousmane Dembélé. However, he failed to cope with Kinglsey Coman’s pace before being subbed off.
Enzo Fernandez – 7.5
As one of the most energetic players on the pitch, one of the most sought-after youngsters on the planet enjoyed a stellar evening, especially in defense. But he was as impressive in the build-up play.
Rodrigo De Paul – 7
Pretty much like his abovementioned teammate, the ex-Udinese midfielder covered plenty of ground in the center of the park in what was arguably his most impressive performance in Qatar.
Alexis Mac Allister – 7
Another La Albiceleste midfielder that excelled today, the Brighton man barely put his foot wrong. Delivered a top-class assist to set up Di Maria with a clear-cut chance to extend Argentina’s lead to two.
Angel Di Maria – 7.5
Despite missing out on the previous two knockout rounds due to fitness problems, the veteran Juventus winger produced a sensational performance in the most important game of his career.
Julian Alvarez – 6
Not as decisive as he was throughout the tournament but still put Les Bleus‘ backline through a world of trouble.
Lionel Messi – 8
What a way to wave goodbye to the national team! In addition to scoring twice, the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner was pulling all the strings. He’s finally made it!
Substitutes
Marcos Acuna – 7
Gonzalo Montiel – 6
Leandro Paredes – 6
Lautaro Martinez – 5.5
Paulo Dybala – N/A