The 2022 final in Lusail
France fought back twice through Kylian Mbappé's hat-trick, including two goals in 97 seconds during the 80th minute. Messi's extra-time strike seemed decisive until Mbappé converted a 118th-minute penalty. Emiliano Martínez saved Kingsley Coman's spot-kick in the shootout before Aurélien Tchouaméni missed wide. Gonzalo Montiel sealed it for Argentina with their fourth penalty.
Messi's crowning moment
The final cemented Messi's legacy after his 2005 debut. At 35, he became the first player to score in every knockout round (group stage, round of 16, quarterfinal, semifinal, final) in a single World Cup. His double in the final took his tournament tally to 7 goals, earning the Golden Ball ahead of Mbappé's 8-goal Golden Boot.
Argentina's third title
This victory ended Argentina's 36-year wait since Diego Maradona inspired their 1986 triumph. Their first came in 1978 as hosts. The 2022 win made them the fourth nation with three or more World Cups, joining Brazil (5), Germany/Italy (4 each). France missed becoming the third back-to-back champion after Italy (1938) and Brazil (1962).
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Frequently asked questions
What was the score after extra time?+
3-3. Argentina led 2-0 and 3-2 before Mbappé's late penalty forced penalties.
How many World Cups has Messi won?+
One (2022). He reached the 2014 final but lost to Germany.
Where was the 2022 final played?+
Lusail Stadium, Qatar – an 88,966-capacity venue built for the tournament.
Has France ever won back-to-back World Cups?+
No. They won in 1998 and lost the 2002 opener, then won in 2018 before the 2022 final defeat.
When was Argentina's previous World Cup final?+
2014, losing 1-0 to Germany after extra time in Rio de Janeiro.