Argentina Vs France: World Cup 2022 Final Squads

by Jhon Lennon 49 views

The Argentina vs France final at the 2022 World Cup was an epic showdown, and a huge part of what made it so captivating were the incredible squads both nations fielded. Let's dive deep into the talented players who represented Argentina and France in that unforgettable match.

Argentina's World Cup Final Squad

Argentina's journey to the final was fueled by a mix of seasoned veterans and exciting young talents, all united under the leadership of Lionel Messi. The Argentina squad was a blend of experience and youthful exuberance. Lionel Scaloni, the coach, crafted a team that was both resilient defensively and creative in attack. Emiliano Martinez, the Aston Villa goalkeeper, proved to be a pivotal figure with his penalty-saving heroics throughout the tournament. The defense was anchored by the likes of Nicolas Otamendi and Cristian Romero, who brought a combination of grit and aerial prowess. In midfield, players like Rodrigo De Paul, Enzo Fernandez, and Alexis Mac Allister provided the engine, linking defense and attack with their tireless running and incisive passing. And, of course, there was Lionel Messi, the maestro, pulling the strings and orchestrating the attack with his unparalleled vision and skill. His presence alone elevated the entire team. Other key players included Angel Di Maria, whose experience and ability to deliver in crucial moments were invaluable, and Julian Alvarez, the young forward who provided a dynamic threat upfront. This squad wasn't just a collection of individuals; it was a cohesive unit that played with heart, passion, and a deep sense of national pride. Their journey to the final was a testament to their collective spirit and unwavering belief in their ability to conquer the world.

Key Players for Argentina

  • Lionel Messi: Arguably the greatest footballer of all time, Messi's presence was inspirational. His goals, assists, and overall playmaking were crucial to Argentina's success. He not only led the team with his exceptional skills but also with his unwavering determination and leadership on and off the pitch.
  • Emiliano Martinez: "Dibu" Martinez's saves, especially in penalty shootouts, were game-changing. His confidence and ability to rise to the occasion made him a formidable last line of defense. He became a national hero with his antics and saves.
  • Angel Di Maria: A veteran who provided crucial experience and a goal in the final, Di Maria's contribution was immense. His ability to deliver in big games made him an invaluable asset to the team. His performance in the final showcased his class and experience.

France's World Cup Final Squad

France, the defending champions, boasted a star-studded squad brimming with talent across every position. Didier Deschamps had assembled a team capable of both defensive solidity and attacking flair. Hugo Lloris, the experienced Tottenham Hotspur goalkeeper, captained the side and provided a calming presence in goal. The defense featured players like Raphael Varane and Dayot Upamecano, who brought a blend of experience and athleticism. In midfield, the likes of Antoine Griezmann, Aurelien Tchouameni, and Adrien Rabiot controlled the tempo and provided a platform for the attack. Upfront, Kylian Mbappe led the line with his blistering pace and clinical finishing, supported by the likes of Olivier Giroud and Ousmane Dembele. The depth of the French squad was remarkable, with quality players like Kingsley Coman and Marcus Thuram ready to make an impact off the bench. Despite facing injury setbacks before and during the tournament, France showcased their resilience and adaptability, reaching the final with a combination of tactical discipline and individual brilliance. Their squad was a testament to the strength of French football and their ability to consistently produce world-class players. The French team's journey to the final was marked by moments of brilliance and sheer determination, solidifying their status as one of the top teams in the world.

Key Players for France

  • Kylian Mbappe: The Golden Boot winner, Mbappe's pace, skill, and goals were a constant threat to opposing defenses. His hat-trick in the final cemented his status as one of the game's brightest stars. Mbappe was a force to be reckoned with throughout the tournament.
  • Antoine Griezmann: Playing in a more midfield role, Griezmann's work rate, creativity, and tactical intelligence were vital for France. His versatility and ability to contribute in multiple areas of the pitch made him a key player for Deschamps.
  • Hugo Lloris: The captain and experienced goalkeeper, Lloris, provided leadership and stability at the back. His shot-stopping ability and command of his area were crucial for France's defensive solidity. Lloris has been a mainstay for France for over a decade.

Squad Comparison: Argentina vs France

Comparing the Argentina vs France squads, it's clear that both teams possessed incredible quality but with different strengths. Argentina's strength lay in their unity, tactical discipline, and the inspiration provided by Messi. They were a team that fought for each other and executed their game plan with precision. France, on the other hand, had more individual star power and a greater depth of talent across the squad. Their ability to call upon world-class players from the bench gave them a significant advantage. However, France's journey was also marked by internal strife and injury concerns, which may have impacted their overall cohesion. Argentina's midfield, with players like De Paul and Fernandez, was known for its tireless work rate and ability to win the ball back, while France's midfield boasted more technical skill and creativity. Upfront, both teams had lethal finishers in Messi and Mbappe, but Argentina relied more on Messi's individual brilliance, while France had a more diverse attacking threat with players like Griezmann, Giroud, and Dembele. Ultimately, the final was a clash of styles, with Argentina's collective spirit and tactical discipline going up against France's individual brilliance and depth of talent. The game was a nail-biting affair that went down to the wire, showcasing the best of both teams.

Key Differences

  • Team Unity vs. Individual Brilliance: Argentina relied more on team spirit, while France had more individual stars.
  • Midfield Dynamics: Argentina's midfield was about work rate, while France's was about technical skill.
  • Attacking Reliance: Argentina heavily relied on Messi, while France had a more diverse attack.

The Final Match: A Recap

The final itself was a rollercoaster of emotions. Argentina dominated early, with Messi scoring a penalty and Di Maria adding another goal. France, however, came back late with two quick goals from Mbappe to force extra time. Messi scored again in extra time, but Mbappe completed his hat-trick with another penalty to send the game to a shootout. Argentina emerged victorious in the penalty shootout, with Emiliano Martinez proving to be the hero. The match was a classic, filled with drama, excitement, and moments of individual brilliance. It was a fitting end to a memorable tournament and a testament to the quality of both teams.

Memorable Moments

  • Mbappe's Hat-Trick: A stunning performance that almost single-handedly brought France back into the game.
  • Martinez's Penalty Saves: His heroics in the shootout were crucial to Argentina's victory.
  • Messi's Goals: Adding to his legacy, Messi's goals were vital in Argentina's triumph.

Where Are They Now?

Many of the players from both squads continue to shine for their respective clubs and national teams. Messi, after a stint with PSG, is now showcasing his talents in the MLS with Inter Miami. Mbappe remains a superstar at PSG and continues to break records. Griezmann is still a key player for Atletico Madrid, while Lloris has moved on to play in the MLS with Los Angeles FC. The legacy of these players from the 2022 World Cup final will continue to inspire future generations of footballers.

Continuing Success

  • Lionel Messi: Now playing in MLS, continuing to showcase his incredible talent.
  • Kylian Mbappe: Still a superstar at PSG, breaking records and dominating Ligue 1.
  • Antoine Griezmann: Remains a key player for Atletico Madrid.

Conclusion

The Argentina vs France final in the 2022 World Cup was a match for the ages, and the squads that both teams brought to the tournament were a testament to the global talent in football. From Messi's brilliance to Mbappe's heroics, the game was filled with memorable moments and outstanding performances. Both squads were filled with incredible talent and contributed to an unforgettable final. The memories from that match will last a lifetime for fans around the world. Guys, it was truly an epic showdown that will be talked about for years to come!