Argentina Vs France: Full Match Review

Guys, buckle up! Let's dive into one of the most epic World Cup finals ever: Argentina versus France. This match had everything – drama, goals, controversies, and a nail-biting penalty shootout. So, grab your favorite drink, and let’s break down this classic game, point by point.

A Dominant First Half for Argentina

Argentina came out strong, setting the tone early with aggressive play and tactical discipline. From the kickoff, it was clear they had a game plan to disrupt France's rhythm and control the midfield. Lionel Messi, as always, was the focal point, dictating the tempo and creating opportunities. The first big moment arrived when Angel Di Maria, causing problems for the French defense with his incisive runs, was brought down in the box.

Messi's Penalty and Di Maria's Goal

Messi stepped up and calmly slotted the penalty home, sending Hugo Lloris the wrong way. This early goal gave Argentina a massive confidence boost and put France on the back foot. But Argentina wasn't done yet. They continued to press, and their second goal was a thing of beauty. A flowing counter-attack, starting from their own half, culminated in Di Maria finishing off a superb team move. The speed, precision, and clinical finishing were a testament to Argentina's attacking prowess. At this point, Argentina looked completely in control, and France seemed shell-shocked, struggling to string passes together or create any meaningful chances.

France's First-Half Struggles

France, on the other hand, looked completely out of sorts in the first half. Their star players, including Kylian Mbappé, were largely anonymous, and their midfield was overrun by Argentina's energetic press. The French struggled to cope with Argentina's intensity and tactical setup. Didier Deschamps, the French coach, recognized the need for a change and made two substitutions before halftime, bringing on Marcus Thuram and Randal Kolo Muani in an attempt to inject some life into his team. However, these changes didn't immediately have the desired impact, and Argentina went into halftime with a comfortable 2-0 lead.

France's Stunning Comeback

The second half saw a dramatic shift in momentum. France, spurred on by their coach's words and perhaps a realization of the dire situation, came out with renewed energy and determination. However, for a long period, Argentina managed to keep them at bay, defending resolutely and frustrating the French attack. But then, in the space of two minutes, the game was turned on its head.

Mbappé's Double Strike

First, Mbappé scored a penalty after Kolo Muani was fouled in the box. The penalty was powerfully struck, giving Emiliano Martinez no chance. This goal injected belief into the French team and their fans. Then, just moments later, Mbappé scored a stunning volley after a brilliant one-two with Thuram. The speed and technique of the finish were breathtaking, and suddenly the game was level. Argentina, who had been in complete control, were now reeling, struggling to comprehend what had just happened. The momentum had completely shifted, and France were now on top.

Argentina's Response

After Mbappé's equalizer, the game became more open and frantic. Both teams had chances to win it in regulation time, but neither could find the decisive goal. Messi had a couple of opportunities, but Lloris was equal to the task. Mbappé also threatened, but the Argentine defense held firm. The game went into extra time, with both teams exhausted but desperate to avoid a penalty shootout.

Extra Time Drama

Extra time was a rollercoaster of emotions, with both teams scoring and missing chances. Messi thought he had won it for Argentina when he scored from close range after Lloris had parried Lautaro Martinez's shot. The goal was initially ruled out for offside, but after a VAR review, it was given, sending the Argentine fans into raptures. However, France wasn't done yet. Mbappé completed his hat-trick with another penalty after a handball in the box. This made him only the second player in history to score a hat-trick in a World Cup final, after Geoff Hurst in 1966. The game ended 3-3, and a penalty shootout was needed to decide the winner.

Messi's Extra Time Goal and Mbappé's Hat-Trick

The sheer drama of extra time cannot be overstated. Messi's goal, initially sparking wild celebrations, was followed by the tension of the VAR review. The relief and joy when the goal was confirmed were palpable. But then, Mbappé's response, completing his hat-trick, was simply incredible. His composure under pressure, to score two penalties in such a high-stakes game, was remarkable. It was a moment of individual brilliance that will be remembered forever. The fact that both Messi and Mbappé, the two biggest stars in the game, were the protagonists in this drama only added to the narrative.

The Decisive Penalty Shootout

The penalty shootout was a nerve-wracking affair. Mbappé and Messi both scored their penalties, but then Martinez saved Kingsley Coman's penalty, and Aurelien Tchouameni missed his, putting Argentina in a commanding position. Argentina converted their next two penalties, leaving Gonzalo Montiel with the chance to win the World Cup. He coolly slotted the ball past Lloris, sparking scenes of wild celebration among the Argentine players and fans. Argentina had won their third World Cup, and Messi had finally achieved his dream.

Martinez's Heroics and Montiel's Decisive Kick

Emiliano Martinez's role in the penalty shootout cannot be overlooked. His save from Coman was crucial, shifting the momentum firmly in Argentina's favor. He also used some gamesmanship, attempting to distract the French penalty takers, which some found controversial but others saw as simply part of the psychological battle. Montiel, who had conceded the penalty that allowed Mbappé to complete his hat-trick, showed incredible composure to take the winning penalty. It was a moment of redemption for him, and one that he will never forget. The tension as he stepped up to take the kick was almost unbearable, but he kept his cool and delivered the goods.

Key Moments and Turning Points

Several key moments and turning points shaped the outcome of this epic final. Argentina's dominant first half, with Messi's penalty and Di Maria's goal, gave them a seemingly unassailable lead. However, France's second-half comeback, sparked by Mbappé's two goals in two minutes, completely changed the complexion of the game. Messi's extra-time goal looked like it would be the winner, but Mbappé's hat-trick penalty ensured the game went to a shootout. Ultimately, Martinez's save in the shootout and Montiel's winning penalty proved to be the decisive moments.

Tactical Analysis

Tactically, Argentina's approach in the first half was spot-on. They pressed France high up the pitch, disrupting their build-up play and forcing them into errors. They also targeted the French right-back position, exploiting the space behind him with Di Maria's runs. In the second half, France adjusted their tactics, pushing Mbappé further forward and playing with more intensity. Their substitutions also made a difference, with Thuram and Kolo Muani adding energy and directness to their attack. The midfield battle was crucial throughout the game, with Argentina initially dominating but France gradually gaining control.

The Impact of Messi and Mbappé

This final was also a battle between two of the greatest players of their generation, Messi and Mbappé. Messi, at the age of 35, finally won the World Cup, completing his trophy cabinet. He scored two goals in the final and was a constant threat throughout the game. Mbappé, at the age of 23, scored a hat-trick in the final, becoming only the second player to achieve this feat. He showed incredible composure and skill under pressure, and his performance cemented his status as one of the best players in the world. Both players left their mark on this final, and their performances will be talked about for years to come.

Conclusion: A Final for the Ages

The Argentina vs France final was a truly unforgettable game. It had everything – drama, goals, controversies, and a nail-biting penalty shootout. It was a testament to the beauty and unpredictability of football. Both teams played their hearts out, and in the end, Argentina emerged victorious, winning their third World Cup. This final will be remembered as one of the greatest in history, a true classic that will be talked about for generations. What a match, right? It was packed with emotions and so many exciting moments! Definitely one for the books, guys!