Argentina Vs France: World Cup 2022 Goals & Highlights

The Argentina vs France World Cup 2022 final was nothing short of a legendary clash, a game etched forever in the annals of football history. For those who witnessed it, either live or on screen, the memories of the nail-biting moments, the stunning goals, and the sheer drama remain vivid. Let's dive deep into a detailed recap of all the goals scored in that epic encounter, exploring the context, the execution, and the significance of each.

Argentina's First-Half Dominance

Argentina came out of the blocks firing, determined to seize control of the game from the get-go. Their relentless pressure and tactical masterclass, orchestrated by Lionel Scaloni, quickly translated into tangible rewards. The opening goal arrived in the 23rd minute courtesy of a penalty. Angel Di Maria, a constant threat down the left flank, embarked on one of his mesmerizing runs, leaving the French defense scrambling. His clever footwork drew a clumsy foul inside the box, leaving the referee with no option but to point to the spot. Up stepped Lionel Messi, the Argentinian captain, the weight of a nation's hopes resting on his shoulders. With his trademark composure, Messi coolly slotted the ball into the bottom left corner, sending Hugo Lloris the wrong way. The stadium erupted in a cacophony of noise as Argentina took a crucial lead, injecting themselves with even more confidence.

Fuelled by the early advantage, Argentina continued to press forward, suffocating France's midfield and preventing them from establishing any rhythm. Their dominance was further rewarded in the 36th minute with a goal that showcased the team's fluidity and attacking prowess. It was a counter-attacking move of devastating speed and precision. After winning the ball back in their own half, Argentina launched a swift attack, with several players involved in a series of incisive passes. Alexis Mac Allister, playing a pivotal role in midfield, surged forward and delivered a perfectly weighted through ball to Angel Di Maria, who had made a clever run behind the French defense. Di Maria, with his exceptional technique, calmly finished past Lloris, doubling Argentina's lead and sending their fans into raptures. At this point, Argentina looked firmly in control, their dream of lifting the World Cup trophy seemingly within reach. The first half performance was a testament to their tactical preparation, their unwavering determination, and the individual brilliance of players like Messi and Di Maria.

France's Stunning Comeback

Trailing by two goals, France faced an uphill battle as the second half commenced. Didier Deschamps, recognizing the need for a change, made tactical adjustments, bringing on fresh legs and altering the team's formation. However, for a considerable period, Argentina managed to maintain their grip on the game, frustrating the French attack and limiting their opportunities. But football, as we all know, is a game of unpredictable twists and turns, and France were about to unleash a comeback for the ages.

The catalyst for France's resurgence was none other than Kylian Mbappé, their young superstar. In the 79th minute, France were awarded a penalty after Nicolas Otamendi was adjudged to have fouled Randal Kolo Muani inside the box. Mbappé stepped up to take the spot-kick and, with nerves of steel, fired the ball past Emiliano Martinez, reducing the deficit and igniting a spark of hope among the French supporters. Just moments later, in the 81st minute, Mbappé struck again, this time with a goal of sheer brilliance. After receiving the ball on the edge of the area, Mbappé played a clever one-two with Marcus Thuram, before unleashing a stunning volley into the bottom corner, leaving Martinez with no chance. In the space of just two minutes, Mbappé had single-handedly dragged France back into the game, leveling the score and turning the match on its head. The momentum had shifted dramatically, and Argentina were now reeling from the sudden onslaught.

Extra Time Drama and Mbappé's Hat-Trick

With the score level at 2-2, the game headed into extra time, adding another layer of suspense to an already captivating encounter. Both teams, exhausted but determined, battled fiercely for every ball, knowing that one moment of brilliance or one costly mistake could decide the fate of the World Cup. In the 108th minute, Lionel Messi appeared to have sealed the victory for Argentina, scoring his second goal of the match. After a goalmouth scramble, Lautaro Martinez unleashed a powerful shot that was saved by Lloris, but Messi was on hand to poke the rebound over the line. The Argentinian fans erupted in jubilation, believing that their team had finally secured the trophy.

However, the drama was far from over. In the 118th minute, France were awarded another penalty after Mbappé's shot struck the arm of Gonzalo Montiel inside the box. Mbappé stepped up once again and, with unwavering confidence, completed his hat-trick, sending Martinez the wrong way and leveling the score at 3-3. It was a historic moment, only the second hat-trick ever scored in a World Cup final, and it ensured that the game would be decided by a penalty shootout.

Penalty Shootout Heartbreak

After 120 minutes of pulsating football, the World Cup final went down to the wire with a penalty shootout. The tension inside the Lusail Stadium was palpable as each player prepared to take their turn from the spot. Kylian Mbappé and Lionel Messi both converted their penalties, setting the stage for a nerve-wracking sequence of kicks. However, France faltered, with Kingsley Coman and Aurelien Tchouameni missing their penalties. On the other hand, Argentina were flawless, converting all four of their spot-kicks. Gonzalo Montiel, who had conceded the late penalty, stepped up to take the decisive penalty and, with ice in his veins, slotted the ball past Lloris, sparking scenes of unbridled joy among the Argentinian players and fans.

Argentina had won the penalty shootout 4-2, securing their third World Cup title and ending their 36-year wait for glory. The Argentina vs France World Cup 2022 final will forever be remembered as one of the greatest games in football history, a testament to the skill, passion, and drama that make the sport so captivating. The goals, the comebacks, the twists and turns – it had everything. For Argentina, it was the culmination of a long and arduous journey, a triumph for Lionel Messi and his teammates. For France, it was a heartbreaking defeat, but one that they can be proud of, knowing that they gave their all in an unforgettable final.

A Goal-by-Goal Summary:

Here's a quick recap of the goals scored in the Argentina vs. France World Cup 2022 final:

• 23rd minute: Lionel Messi (Argentina) - Penalty
• 36th minute: Angel Di Maria (Argentina) - Assisted by Alexis Mac Allister
• 79th minute: Kylian Mbappé (France) - Penalty
• 81st minute: Kylian Mbappé (France) - Assisted by Marcus Thuram
• 108th minute: Lionel Messi (Argentina) - Rebound after Lautaro Martinez shot
• 118th minute: Kylian Mbappé (France) - Penalty

Final Thoughts

The goals in the Argentina vs France World Cup 2022 final weren't just numbers on a scoreboard; they were moments of pure emotion, skill, and drama that contributed to an unforgettable sporting spectacle. Each goal told a story, reflecting the ebb and flow of the match, the tactical battles between the two teams, and the individual brilliance of players like Messi and Mbappé. This match will be replayed and discussed for years to come, a true testament to the beautiful game.