Lionel Messi cermented legendary status as Argentina won their third World Cup on penalties in one of the greatest finals in the history of the competition.
Following a thrilling match that featured the eagerly anticipated matchup between Kylian
Mbappe of France and 35-year-old maestro Messi of Argentina. Argentina prevailed 4-2 in the shootout.
At Lusail Stadium, France's own superstar, Kylian Mbappe, scored a hat-trick. The first in a Fifa World Cup final since 1966.
As Argentina sailed into a two-goal lead, Messi appeared to be comfortably securing the one major trophy still lacking from his glistening resume.
All of this changed when Mbappe, who scored two goals in the final two minutes of this thriller to turn the tie on its head.
Following Ousmane Dembele's foul on Angel di Maria in the 23rd minute, Messi gave Argentina the lead from the penalty spot.
He became the only player in the annals of the World Cup to score in the group stage, round of 16, quarterfinal, semifinal and the final
Then, 13 minutes later, Brighton's Alexis Mac Allister set up Di Maria for the second goal after he made a precise touch during a great counterattack.
Up until the very end, Argentina was unchallenged, but Mbappe gave France a chance from the penalty spot with nine minutes left before tying the score with an incredible volley seconds later.
In extra time, Messi gave Argentina the lead again, but Mbappe scored his third goal from the penalty spot two minutes before the end of the extra time.
As a result, penalties were to decide this thriller, with the two best players scoring first.
However, goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez of Argentina and Aston Villa stopped Kingsley Coman before Aurelian Tchouameni missed, giving Gonzalo Montiel the chance to win the World Cup.
Messi, who had finally won the World Cup, fell to his knees in the centre of the field and was surrounded by his delighted Argentina teammates.
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