FIFA World Cup 2022 Final: Key Stats And Highlights

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The FIFA World Cup 2022 final was a thrilling and historic match that kept fans on the edge of their seats until the very end. Argentina emerged victorious against France in a penalty shootout after a 3-3 draw, claiming their third World Cup title. Let's dive into the key stats and highlights that defined this epic encounter.

Match Summary

The final took place on December 18, 2022, at the Lusail Iconic Stadium in Qatar. The atmosphere was electric, with fans from both nations creating a vibrant and passionate environment. Argentina, led by Lionel Messi, started strong, dominating the first half and creating several scoring opportunities. France, with Kylian Mbappé leading their attack, struggled to find their rhythm initially but mounted a remarkable comeback in the later stages of the game. The match was filled with drama, including penalties, stunning goals, and nail-biting moments that will be remembered for years to come.

First Half Dominance

Argentina's early dominance was evident in their possession and attacking plays. They controlled the midfield, effectively cutting off France's supply to their forwards. Lionel Messi converted a penalty in the 23rd minute, sending Argentina into the lead. Ángel Di María extended their advantage in the 36th minute with a well-executed goal, leaving France trailing by two goals at halftime. The first half showcased Argentina's tactical prowess and determination to seize control of the match. The Argentinian squad displayed exceptional teamwork, pressing high and forcing France into defensive errors, setting a tone of dominance that echoed through the stadium and ignited the hopes of fans worldwide. Their strategic gameplay not only stifled France's attacking threats but also created numerous opportunities for Argentina to exploit vulnerabilities in the French defense.

France's Comeback

Despite being down by two goals, France displayed incredible resilience and fighting spirit. Kylian Mbappé scored two goals in quick succession, one from the penalty spot in the 80th minute and another with a stunning volley in the 81st minute, leveling the score and bringing France back into the game. Mbappé's goals injected new life into the French team and energized their supporters. The momentum shifted dramatically as France pushed for a winner, creating intense pressure on the Argentine defense. This period showcased Mbappé's exceptional talent and composure under pressure, marking a turning point that transformed the match's narrative. The sudden shift in momentum underscored the unpredictable nature of football, as France's resurgence not only leveled the score but also instilled a renewed sense of belief and determination within the team, setting the stage for an electrifying final stretch.

Extra Time Thriller

The match went into extra time, where both teams continued to battle fiercely. Lionel Messi scored again in the 108th minute, seemingly putting Argentina back in the lead. However, Kylian Mbappé completed his hat-trick with another penalty in the 118th minute, tying the score once more and sending the game to a penalty shootout. Extra time was filled with end-to-end action, showcasing the determination and skill of both teams. The physical and mental endurance of the players were tested to the limit as they fought for every inch of the field. Messi's goal was a testament to his unwavering commitment, while Mbappé's hat-trick underscored his status as a world-class player. The rollercoaster of emotions during extra time kept fans captivated, as the lead changed hands and the outcome remained uncertain until the final whistle. This period of the match was a true spectacle of footballing excellence, highlighting the competitive spirit and unwavering resolve of both Argentina and France.

Penalty Shootout Drama

In the penalty shootout, Argentina prevailed 4-2, with goalkeeper Emiliano MartĂ­nez making a crucial save. Argentina converted all four of their penalties, while France missed two, securing the victory for Argentina. The penalty shootout was a nerve-wracking experience for players and fans alike, with the weight of the World Cup title hanging in the balance. MartĂ­nez's save proved to be the decisive moment, as Argentina clinched their third World Cup title and sparked celebrations across the nation. The shootout encapsulated the drama and tension of the final, with each kick carrying immense significance. Argentina's composure under pressure and their ability to convert their penalties ultimately secured their triumph, marking a historic moment in football history. The victory was a culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and unwavering belief, solidifying Argentina's legacy as a footballing powerhouse.

Key Stats

Here are some of the key stats from the FIFA World Cup 2022 final:

  • Possession: Argentina 54% - France 46%
  • Shots: Argentina 20 - France 19
  • Shots on Target: Argentina 10 - France 5
  • Corners: Argentina 5 - France 5
  • Fouls: Argentina 19 - France 19
  • Yellow Cards: Argentina 8 - France 3
  • Red Cards: Argentina 0 - France 0
  • Saves: Argentina 2 - France 7

Goalscorers

  • Argentina: Lionel Messi (23' penalty, 108'), Ángel Di MarĂ­a (36')
  • France: Kylian MbappĂ© (80' penalty, 81', 118' penalty)

Individual Awards

  • Golden Ball (Best Player): Lionel Messi (Argentina)
  • Golden Boot (Top Scorer): Kylian MbappĂ© (France) - 8 goals
  • Golden Glove (Best Goalkeeper): Emiliano MartĂ­nez (Argentina)
  • Young Player Award: Enzo FernĂĄndez (Argentina)

Player Performances

Lionel Messi

Lionel Messi's performance in the final was nothing short of legendary. He scored two goals, including a penalty, and played a crucial role in Argentina's attacking plays. Messi's vision, passing, and dribbling skills were on full display, earning him the Golden Ball award as the tournament's best player. His leadership and determination inspired his teammates and captivated fans around the world. Messi's contribution extended beyond goals, as he consistently created opportunities and dictated the tempo of the game. His remarkable performance cemented his status as one of the greatest footballers of all time, fulfilling his lifelong dream of winning the World Cup. Messi's influence on the team was undeniable, as his presence on the field elevated the performance of those around him, showcasing his ability to inspire and lead by example.

Kylian Mbappé

Kylian Mbappé's performance was equally impressive, as he scored a hat-trick and won the Golden Boot as the tournament's top scorer. Mbappé's pace, power, and clinical finishing were a constant threat to the Argentine defense. Despite being on the losing side, Mbappé's performance showcased his immense talent and potential. His ability to score crucial goals under pressure demonstrated his mental strength and composure. Mbappé's hat-trick was a historic achievement, making him only the second player to score three goals in a World Cup final since Geoff Hurst in 1966. His outstanding performance underscored his status as one of the brightest young stars in football, and his contributions throughout the tournament solidified his reputation as a game-changer. Mbappé's impact on the game was undeniable, as his speed and skill constantly challenged the Argentine defense, creating opportunities and keeping France in contention until the very end.

Emiliano MartĂ­nez

Emiliano MartĂ­nez's performance as Argentina's goalkeeper was pivotal to their success. He made several crucial saves throughout the tournament, including a decisive save in the penalty shootout. MartĂ­nez's confidence and shot-stopping ability earned him the Golden Glove award as the tournament's best goalkeeper. His presence in goal provided a sense of security for the Argentine defense, allowing them to play with more freedom and confidence. MartĂ­nez's contributions extended beyond his saves, as his vocal leadership and command of the penalty area inspired his teammates. His remarkable performance in the final solidified his reputation as one of the best goalkeepers in the world, and his contributions were instrumental in Argentina's triumph. MartĂ­nez's ability to perform under pressure and make critical saves at crucial moments was a testament to his skill and mental fortitude, making him an invaluable asset to the Argentine team.

Conclusion

The FIFA World Cup 2022 final was a classic match that will be remembered for its drama, excitement, and incredible performances. Argentina's victory was a testament to their teamwork, determination, and the brilliance of Lionel Messi. France's comeback and Kylian Mbappé's hat-trick showcased their resilience and talent. The final was a fitting end to a memorable tournament, leaving fans with unforgettable moments and a renewed appreciation for the beautiful game. The statistical highlights underscore the intensity and competitiveness of the match, as both teams fought valiantly for the ultimate prize. The individual awards recognized the outstanding contributions of players like Messi, Mbappé, and Martínez, further solidifying their legacies in football history. The FIFA World Cup 2022 final was a true spectacle of skill, passion, and drama, showcasing the best that football has to offer and creating memories that will last a lifetime.