Argentina are the new champions of World Football after they beat France on penalties in the final of the 2022 FIFA World Cup at the Lusail Stadium in Qatar on Sunday, December 18. It was the perfect way to end Lionel Messi's World Cup career, as the Argentine lifted the one trophy that has eluded him for a very long time.
From brilliant tactical decisions, to fighting against the odd, here are five reasons that helped Argentina seal the coveted prize:
A nation, united
Not many know that Argentina are currently facing a major economic crisis. In such a situation, Messi and his compadres will bring home the trophy in what has lifted the country from their doom and gloom. The support for their team at the Lusail was an indication of what this victory means to the country, as they outnumbered the French fans and rallied their team on from the very beginning.
Messi leading from the front
The charismatic talisman has been Argentina's guiding light throughout the tournament, and his performance in the final was no less that brilliant. He had a hand in all three of their goals, scoring two and delivering the key pass for one of the goals in the game. Messi is known for missing crucial penalties but he has shown more growth than deterioration at the ripe age of 35.
Fury of Emiliano Martinez
Messi is the name on everyone's lips but one of their biggest heroes was goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez. After his brilliant performances in key matches against Mexico and Australia and his calm persona in the penalty shootout against the intense Netherlands, the Argentine was at his best in the final as well. Martinez saved a crucial France shot off Randal Kolo Muani in the final minutes of extra time, and then also saved the penalty of Kingsley Coman to give his best friend Messi the trophy.
Angel Di Maria a surprise package
Led by Angel Di Maria, was not something that the Argentines would have expected to say at the beginning of the game. But it turned out to be a brilliant choice after the veteran won the penalty that gave Argentina the lead, and then doubled their lead with a brilliant move.
It was an excellent counter-attacking move involving Messi, Julian Alvarez and Alexis Mac Allister from one end of the pitch to the other. Messi found Mac Allister with a pin-point and di Maria was there to receive the ball, find the goal with a finesse shot it beyond a helpless Hugo Lloris.
