The World Cup in Qatar
For just over two hours on Sunday 18th December, billions across the world watched one of the greatest FIFA World Cup finals ever played. Argentina vs France, Messi vs Mbappe. It had everything, 6 goals, huge saves, last ditch tackles, missed chances, extra time, penalties. In the end, Argentina held their nerve to win the World Cup for the first time since Maradona lifted it in 1986.
Messi, already regarded by many as the greatest of all time, crowned the tournament (which started with defeat to Saudi Arabia) with arguably his biggest achievement in the sport. (Who’s betting against an 8th Ballon d’Or?!)
Wow… The FIFA World Cup 2022 Final
Argentina vs France was the final many sought from the very beginning. The possible (probable?) greatest of all time in Lionel Messi with Argentina. The current arguable best in the world with Mbappe and France. Both team mates at Paris St-Germain, both tied at the top of the goalscorers chart for the tournament.
The narrative in the build up wouldn’t be out of place in Hollywood - but not even in the studios of Los Angeles could a production be so emotional, so epic, so action packed and dramatic. In the end, Messi and Argentina claimed the trophy and title of World Champions, but Mbappe and a young French team will be looking to reclaim their title in 4 years time.
Qatar FIFA World Cup 2022 Final Standings:
- Champions: Argentina
- Runners Up: France
- 3rd Place: Croatia
Individual Qatar World Cup Glory
The final was remarkable, and although the title will be heading back to Argentina, individual recognition was also well earned and merited.
- Top Goalscorer: Kylian Mbappe (8)
- Player of the Tournament: Lionel Messi
- Young Player of the Tournament: Enzo Fernandez
- Golden Glove (Keeper) of the Tournament: Emiliano Martinez
The Greaves Sports 2022 FIFA World Cup Team of the Tournament
It’ll be tough saying goodbye to the World Cup, we’ve put together our team of the tournament on BBC Sport, do you agree?! Go on BBC Sport and create your best XI, share on social media and tag us!
World Cup 2022 and the Argentina Legacy
With a swift return to domestic football imminent, you can still pick up a World Cup 2022 football shirt from your favourite teams, or the much-admired adidas Al Rihla World Cup football used in the tournament.
From the stunning honorary tshirts and retro football shirts from Copa, nodding to late great Maradona, to the new kids training range from Messi, the legacy of Argentinian World Cup wins will long live on. Now, how did people spend their days before the World Cup? We’re going to miss it!
