Lionel Messi led Argentina to a stunning World Cup victory, beating defending champions France 4-2 on penalties after an enthralling 3-3 draw over 120 minutes.
A thrilling contest in Qatar went all the way after a 3-3 draw. Lionel Messi and Angel Di Maria put the Albiceleste on their way before their talismanic captain netted again in extra time. Still, Kylian Mbappe hit a hat-trick for Les Bleus.
Emiliano Martinez was the hero again for Argentina in a shootout, as he forced two misses from France. He also had a game-saving save as he made himself big and blocked Kolo Muani’s effort in the game’s dying minutes.
Martinez saved from Kingsley Coman, while Aurelien Tchouameni fired his effort wide of the target, and Argentina held their nerve to convert all four of their spot-kicks.
Argentina had won their first World Cup since 1986, when Diego Maradona skippered them to glory, with Messi handed the perfect send-off in his final international appearance.
Lionel Messi became the first player in World Cup history to score in every round of a single edition of the tournament after putting Argentina ahead against France in Sunday’s final. Few would dispute the Argentine is winning the Golden Ball award, which recognises the best player at the tournament.
One of the most outstanding individual displays in the history of the World Cup.
Kylian Mbappe also received the golden boot after scoring eight goals, including a hat trick in the final.
Enzo Fernandez and Emiliano Martinez were named the best young player and the goalkeeper of the tournament, respectively.
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