The 2022 FIFA World Cup Final in Qatar saw an epic showdown between Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappé as Argentina faced France on December 18, 2022. This match is widely regarded as one of the greatest World Cup finals in history, with both Messi and Mbappé delivering unforgettable performances.
The Ultimate Showdown: Lionel Messi vs. Kylian Mbappé in Qatar 2022 World Cup Final
The Highlights:
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Argentina took the lead early in the match, with Messi scoring a penalty and Ángel Di María adding a second goal. By halftime, Argentina was leading 2-0.
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In the second half, Kylian Mbappé turned the tide for France. He scored twice within two minutes—first from a penalty and then a stunning volley—to level the game at 2-2, forcing extra time.
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In extra time, Lionel Messi scored again, giving Argentina a 3-2 lead. However, Mbappé completed his hat-trick with another penalty, bringing the match to 3-3 and forcing a penalty shootout.
The Penalty Shootout:
- Argentina eventually won 4-2 in the shootout, with Messi converting his penalty, while Emiliano Martínez, Argentina’s goalkeeper, made crucial saves.
Key Moments:
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Messi scored two goals during regular and extra time and also converted his penalty in the shootout, securing his first World Cup and cementing his legacy as one of the greatest footballers of all time.
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Mbappé became the first player since 1966 to score a hat-trick in a World Cup final and won the Golden Boot as the tournament’s top scorer with 8 goals.
Significance:
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For Messi, this victory completed his glittering career, finally securing the one trophy that had eluded him. It was a dream ending to his international career, fulfilling his destiny on the world’s biggest stage.
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Mbappé, despite the loss, emerged as a global superstar. At just 23 years old, he was already a World Cup winner (2018) and showed his immense talent, solidifying himself as Messi's heir apparent in world football.
This final is considered a battle of generations, with Messi representing the old guard and Mbappé the future, but it was Messi who lifted the trophy and sealed his legacy.