‘The perfect finish’
“This was the Hollywood ending, it was the perfect finish, it was the beautiful dream coming true. These scenes will live forever, as Lionel Messi and Argentina have won the World Cup.”
Will the 2026 World Cup final match the drama of 2022? One year from Saturday, the grand finale of the world’s most prestigious sports event awaits. As we prepare for June 19, 2026, let’s relive that unforgettable clash in Qatar as captured by FOX Sports’ John Strong and Stu Holden.
Argentina vs. France: Mini-Movie of 2022 FIFA World Cup Final
Messi Scores to Put Argentina Ahead (23rd minute)
“How many billions of eyes are on these two men at 12 yards? Messi scores! … What focus, what concentration, what pressure!”
Following a foul on Ángel Di María by Ousmane Dembélé, Lionel Messi confidently converted a penalty, giving Argentina an early advantage.
Di María Doubles the Lead (36th minute)
“Julian Alvarez is making a run … and here comes Di María! … It’s a masterclass from Argentina!”
Ángel Di María scored a second goal with a beautiful setup from Messi to extend Argentina’s lead in the final.
Mbappé Strikes for France (80th minute)
“This is a golden opportunity for France! Mbappé scores! Martinez got a hand to it! The match is still alive!”
Kylian Mbappé scored after winning a penalty, igniting hope for France late in the match.
Two Goals in Quick Succession for France (81st minute)
“Mbappé! He’s turned it around! The French are back in this game!”
Just a minute after his first goal, Mbappé netted again, leveling the score and shifting the momentum.
Messi Finds the Net Again in Extra Time (108th minute)
“Messi! Did it cross the line? Yes, it did! Argentina regains the lead! … The magician does it again when Argentina needs him!”
Messi scored again during extra time, putting Argentina ahead as the tension rose.
Mbappé Completes His Hat Trick (116th minute)
“It’s a penalty for France! And save for Mbappé’s hat-trick, making history in the World Cup finals!”
Mbappé’s penalty equalized for France, sending the match towards penalties.
Clutch Save in the Final Seconds (120th + 3)
“The most iconic save in World Cup history as Emiliano Martinez secures Argentina’s hopes at the last moment!”
Martinez made a crucial save, preventing France from stealing the victory at the last moment.
Penalty Shootout to Decide the Champion
Both Messi and Mbappé scored their penalties, setting the stage for an unexpected hero. After the French missed two attempts, Gonzalo Montiel clinched the World Cup for Argentina, securing their victory.
“And a hush fell over the crowd in Lusail Stadium as Montiel could win it … Yes!”
Argentina celebrated their triumphant victory in the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
