The Stage is Set: A Final for the Ages
The Lusail Iconic Stadium in Qatar bore witness to what many are calling the greatest football match in history: the FIFA World Cup 2022 final between Argentina and France. It was a clash of titans, a narrative steeped in destiny for Lionel Messi, and a quest for back-to-back glory for Kylian Mbappé and Les Bleus. The air was thick with anticipation, two nations holding their breath as two of the world's strongest teams – Argentina with a CupIndex Strength Index (CSI) of 1847 and France with a CSI of 1841 – prepared to battle for football's ultimate prize. At Sports News, we believe this wasn't just a game; it was an epic, a testament to the beautiful game's power to captivate and thrill. And at its heart were the incredible moments of individual brilliance that led to the goals, defining the outcome and etching names into legend.
This final delivered drama, controversy, and an unprecedented display of attacking prowess. From the opening whistle, the intensity was palpable, setting the stage for a scoring spectacle that would see six goals in open play and extra time, culminating in a penalty shootout for the ages. But before the nerve-wracking penalties, it was the clinical finishes and audacious strikes that truly told the story of this unforgettable encounter. Let's break down every pivotal moment and celebrate the FIFA World Cup 2022 final goal scorers who delivered a masterpiece.
Argentina's First Half Masterclass: Messi and Di María Ignite La Albiceleste
The first half belonged unequivocally to Argentina. Lionel Scaloni's men played with a ferocity and tactical discipline that completely overwhelmed the reigning champions. The Albiceleste's midfield pressed relentlessly, while their attackers exploited every inch of space, culminating in two sensational goals that sent the Argentine faithful into raptures.
Lionel Messi (Penalty) – 23rd Minute
The opening goal arrived from the most anticipated boot on the planet. Argentina's relentless attacking pressure paid off when Ángel Di María, playing on the left wing, cut inside and was brought down by Ousmane Dembélé in the box. The referee pointed to the spot, and the world held its breath. Stepping up, Lionel Messi, with the weight of a nation on his shoulders and a career-long ambition within reach, calmly slotted the ball past Hugo Lloris. It was a moment of sheer composure, a testament to his unparalleled experience and nerve. This goal wasn't just a lead; it was a statement, a clear indication of Argentina's intent to seize control of the final.
Ángel Di María – 36th Minute
If Messi's penalty was a statement, Di María's goal was a work of art. It began deep in Argentina's half with a brilliant tackle from Nahuel Molina, sparking a lightning-fast counter-attack. Messi played a sublime pass to Alexis Mac Allister, who then threaded a perfect ball through to an onrushing Di María on the left flank. 'El Fideo' (The Noodle), with tears already welling in his eyes, coolly finished past Lloris with his left foot. It was a goal born of exquisite teamwork, clinical execution, and a deep understanding between the players. Di María, often a big-game player, delivered spectacularly, doubling Argentina's lead and seemingly putting them in an unassailable position. His emotional celebration encapsulated the sheer joy and belief surging through the Argentine camp.
Mbappé's Stunner: France's Miraculous Comeback
As the second half unfolded, France looked a shadow of their dominant selves. Didier Deschamps made early substitutions, bringing on Randal Kolo Muani and Marcus Thuram, desperately seeking a spark. For much of the half, Argentina seemed comfortable, managing the game with maturity. However, the sheer individual brilliance of Kylian Mbappé was about to ignite a comeback that would shock the world and cement his place among the all-time great FIFA World Cup 2022 final goal scorers.
Kylian Mbappé (Penalty) – 80th Minute
With just ten minutes remaining in regulation time, France finally found a lifeline. Kolo Muani burst into the box and was fouled by Nicolás Otamendi. The penalty was awarded, and Mbappé stepped up. Despite Emiliano Martínez's mind games, the French superstar dispatched the penalty with power and precision, giving France a glimmer of hope. It was a crucial goal that shifted the entire dynamic of the match, reducing Argentina's lead and injecting belief back into the French side.
Kylian Mbappé – 81st Minute
What followed was an almost unbelievable sequence. Less than two minutes after his penalty, Mbappé struck again, producing a moment of pure magic. Kingsley Coman won the ball in midfield, and it found its way to Mbappé. He played a quick one-two with Marcus Thuram, who flicked the ball back to him. Without breaking stride, Mbappé unleashed a stunning volley from just inside the box that flew past Martínez into the net. The stadium erupted, disbelief etched on the faces of Argentine fans. In a blink of an eye, France had gone from seemingly defeated to level terms, all thanks to the electrifying speed and clinical finishing of their talisman. This brace was a masterclass in turning the tide of a final.
Extra Time Thrills: More Legends Etched in History
With the score locked at 2-2, the match plunged into extra time, a gruelling test of endurance and nerve. Both teams pushed for a winner, creating chances and showcasing incredible resilience. The drama wasn't over yet, as two more goals would be added to the tally, further solidifying this final's legendary status and adding to the list of FIFA World Cup 2022 final goal scorers.
Lionel Messi – 108th Minute
Just when it seemed the game might be heading for penalties, Argentina found another gear. Lautaro Martínez unleashed a powerful shot that Hugo Lloris parried, but the rebound fell perfectly for Lionel Messi. The Argentine captain, following up brilliantly, smashed the ball towards goal. Jules Koundé attempted a heroic block on the line, but the ball had clearly crossed before he could clear it. The VAR confirmed the goal, and Argentina once again took the lead. Messi's second goal of the final was a testament to his relentless drive and instinct, pushing his team to the brink of glory once more.
Kylian Mbappé (Penalty) – 118th Minute
But the script wasn't finished. With just minutes left in extra time, France earned yet another penalty when Gonzalo Montiel was adjudged to have handled the ball in the box. Kylian Mbappé stepped up again, facing immense pressure. He calmly converted, completing a historic hat-trick in a World Cup final – only the second player ever to do so, after Geoff Hurst in 1966. Mbappé's third goal levelled the score at 3-3, forcing the match into a penalty shootout and ensuring that his name, alongside Messi's, would be forever synonymous with this epic encounter.
The Legacy of the FIFA World Cup 2022 Final Goal Scorers
The penalty shootout ultimately crowned Argentina as champions, but the six goals scored in open play and extra time are what truly define the exhilarating spectacle of the FIFA World Cup 2022 final. Lionel Messi's brace (a penalty and a poacher's finish) and Ángel Di María's exquisite counter-attacking goal showcased Argentina's attacking prowess and their tactical superiority for large parts of the game. For France, Kylian Mbappé's incredible hat-trick (two penalties and a stunning volley) was a heroic individual effort that almost single-handedly dragged his team back from the brink of defeat, earning him the Golden Boot as the tournament's top scorer.
These FIFA World Cup 2022 final goal scorers didn't just put the ball in the net; they crafted moments of pure theatre, shifting momentum, breaking hearts, and igniting dreams. Their performances in this final will be replayed for generations, serving as a masterclass in clutch finishing, tactical brilliance, and the sheer mental fortitude required at the highest level of international football. It was a game where legends cemented their status, and new stars shone brightest, making it truly a final for the ages.
Summary and Actionable Recommendation
The FIFA World Cup 2022 final was an unparalleled showcase of footballing talent, where Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappé delivered performances that transcended the sport. The goals from Messi (2), Di María (1), and Mbappé (3) were not merely statistics; they were the heartbeat of a match that will forever be etched in history. For football enthusiasts and aspiring players, watching the highlights of these goals offers invaluable insights into composure under pressure, tactical awareness, and clinical finishing. We recommend re-watching the build-up to Di María's goal for a masterclass in counter-attacking football and analysing Mbappé's second goal for its sheer individual brilliance. These moments underscore why the beautiful game continues to captivate millions worldwide. Dive deep into the tactics and individual brilliance that defined this historic match!