FIFA World Cup Winners (2022)
Argentina's third World Cup triumph came in a dramatic penalty shoot-out victory over France in 2022.
Argentina won its third World Cup in 2022, defeating France in a penalty shoot-out after a 3–3 draw in the final.
Quick Facts
- Tournament
- 2022 FIFA World Cup
- Host nation
- Qatar
- Final opponent
- France
- Deciding method
- Penalty Shootout (4-2)
- Key leader
- Lionel Messi (Captain & Golden Ball Winner)
- Total titles
- Third World Cup Victory
- Result
- Champions (3-3 on penalties, 4-2)
- Top scorer
- Lionel Messi (7 goals)
Lore & Background
The 2022 final was Argentina's sixth World Cup final. Argentina took the lead through Lionel Messi from the penalty spot, and doubled their advantage with an Ángel Di María goal in the 36th minute. France made two substitutions in the first half, but went into half-time trailing 0–2. Despite not having a shot until after the 80th minute, France were awarded a penalty after Randal Kolo Muani was brought down in the area.
Kylian Mbappé converted the penalty for France, and added a second goal less than two minutes later to level the score. Since regulation time ended with the score 2–2, the match went to extra time. Messi again scored for Argentina in the 108th minute to restore Argentina's lead. However, Mbappé was then awarded a second penalty in the 118th minute after his initial shot hit the arm of Argentine defender Gonzalo Montiel.
Mbappé converted the penalty to again tie the game, becoming the second ever player to score a hat-trick in the final of a men's World Cup. With extra time concluding and the score at 3–3, the match went to a penalty shoot-out; Argentina emerged victorious after scoring all of their penalties, winning the shoot-out 4–2.
Reader's Guide
Argentina's 2022 World Cup victory was their third title, following wins in 1978 (as host) and 1986 (in Mexico). The 2022 final was played in Qatar, not on home soil.
Did You Know?
- Lionel Messi scored twice in the 2022 final, including a penalty in extra time.
- Kylian Mbappé scored a hat-trick in the 2022 final, becoming the second player to do so in a men's World Cup final.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many World Cups has Argentina won, and what does the 2022 title represent?
The 2022 victory secured Argentina's third FIFA World Cup trophy, ending a forty-year drought since their last win in 1986. This achievement marks a historic milestone as their third championship on foreign soil, validating a generation of talent and resilience under manager Lionel Scaloni.
How did Argentina defeat France in the 2022 World Cup Final?
The final match in Qatar concluded with both teams level after regulation and extra time, forcing a dramatic penalty shootout to determine the winner. Argentina prevailed 4-2 from the spot, clinching the global title in one of the most intense finals in tournament history.
What was Lionel Messi's contribution to the 2022 World Cup success?
Lionel Messi captained the squad and delivered a masterclass performance throughout the tournament, earning the Golden Ball award as the competition's best player. His leadership and clutch moments were instrumental in guiding Argentina to victory, finally fulfilling his dream of winning the World Cup.
Why is the 2022 win considered a cultural reset for Argentine football?
This triumph ended decades of heartbreak and near-misses, transforming national anxiety into celebration and cementing the squad's legacy as the best in their era. It bridges the gap between past legends and modern excellence, proving that Argentina could conquer the world stage once again after a long wait.
Who were the key figures leading Argentina to the 2022 World Cup title?
Captain Lionel Messi provided the on-field brilliance and inspiration, while manager Lionel Scaloni orchestrated the tactical strategy and team spirit that defined the campaign. Together, they united a squad of world-class players to overcome immense pressure and secure the nation's third global crown.
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