Lionel Messi Finally Lifts World Cup Trophy in 2022 Final vs France

Messi Finally Lifts the World Cup Trophy

After years of heartbreak with the Argentine national team, Lionel Messi finally lifted the FIFA World Cup trophy in 2022. At age 35, in what was likely his last World Cup, Messi cemented his legacy as one of the greatest to ever play the beautiful game.

A Long Wait Finally Over

Messi made his World Cup debut for Argentina back in 2006 as a 19-year old phenom. Over the next four World Cups, Messi would lead Argentina to the quarterfinals, semifinals, finals, and round of 16 respectively. But despite being one of the tournament's standout players each time, that elusive World Cup title escaped him.

Entering the 2022 event in Qatar, the pressure was at an all-time high. This was widely expected to be Messi's World Cup swan song. Luckily, everything finally clicked for both player and country.

Magical Moments in the Knockout Stage

Early in the tournament, Argentina suffered a shocking loss to Saudi Arabia in their opening match. But with their backs against the wall, Messi stepped up. He scored in must-win games against Mexico and Poland to close out the group stage.

In the knockout rounds, Messi provided more iconic World Cup moments. There was his goal and assist against Australia, followed by creating the winner versus the Netherlands. He also buried his penalty kick in the epic shootout triumph over Croatia in the semifinals.

World Cup Final for the Ages

The 2022 World Cup final between Argentina and France was an instant classic. Two football giants facing off with everything on the line.

France Strikes First

Despite Argentina's slight upper hand early, it was France who struck first thanks to a converted penalty by Kylian Mbappe. But before halftime, Messi lined up for a penalty of his own. He coolly rolled it into the corner to level the match at 1-1.

Midway through the second half with Argentina leading 2-1, Mbappe scored two quick goals to put France on top. The match see-sawed back and forth, needing extra time to settle things.

Messi's Moment Arrives

Extra time brought more Argentine magic. In the 109th minute, Messi's pass split France's defense, leading to a goal by Gonzalez to make it 3-3. With penalties looming, one final twist emerged.

In the 116th minute, Messi took the ball near the corner flag. He evaded a challenge before firing a cross through traffic into the box. Up jumped Gonzalez again, heading home the championship-winning goal!

At long last, Messi and Argentina were World Cup champions. When Messi was handed that golden trophy, the tears of joy said it all. An iconic player finally attained the game's ultimate prize.

Messi Cements His Legacy

Winning the 2022 World Cup cemented Messi's place in the pantheon of football greats next to Pele and Maradona. Considering Messi delivered Argentina this coveted title, his World Cup legend will perhaps stand above the rest.

By the Numbers

The statistics from Messi's 2022 World Cup run are staggering. In seven matches, he scored seven goals and provided three assists. He also created the most chances (23) while completing the second most take-ons (20).

On top of leading the tournament in some categories, Messi broke multiple records. This included becoming Argentina's most capped World Cup player ever. He also tied Pele's record for most World Cup appearances with Brazil.

More Than a World Cup Title

Winning the 2022 World Cup completed Messi's trophy cabinet at both the club and international level. The longtime FC Barcelona star has won four Champions League titles and numerous league trophies through the years.

But bringing that elusive World Cup back to Argentina will go down as his crowning achievement. Considering the near misses and painful shortcomings of his national teams over the years, this triumph meant more.

At age 35, after over 1,000 professional matches played, Messi can now ride happily into the sunset. What a way to cap off the career of one of football's all-time maestros.

FAQs

How many World Cup finals had Lionel Messi played in before 2022?

Messi had played in one previous World Cup final in 2014 when Argentina lost to Germany.

Who scored France's goals in the 2022 World Cup final?

All three of France's goals were scored by Kylian Mbappé.

What players from Argentina scored goals other than Messi?

Ángel Di María and Julián Álvarez also scored goals for Argentina in their World Cup run.

How many career World Cup goals did Messi finish with?

Messi ended his World Cup career with 13 total goals spanning five tournaments from 2006 to 2022.