Time flies. Lionel Messi and Argentina became world champions three years ago

Exactly three years ago, on 18 December 2022, the World Cup final took place, with Argentina facing France in a truly unforgettable showdown.

The first half ended with Argentina leading 2–0. Goals were scored by Lionel Messi from the penalty spot and Ángel Di María. After the break, however, the game shifted momentum, and late in the second half Les Bleus rapidly restored parity on the scoreboard.

In the 80th minute, Kylian Mbappé converted a penalty, and just one minute later he struck again to level the score. Regulation time finished 2–2, sending the match into extra time.

Argentina regained the lead in the 108th minute as Lionel Messi was the quickest to react in a crowded penalty area and poked the ball into the net. Yet they failed to hold on once more, as ten minutes later Kylian Mbappé completed his hat-trick to make it level again.

In the final seconds of extra time, France had a sensational chance to snatch victory. Kolo Muani went one-on-one with Martínez but failed to beat him. The goalkeeper produced a brilliant save, and the winner had to be decided by a penalty shootout.

Mbappé and Messi both converted their spot-kicks, with Dybala also making no mistake. However, Coman and Tchouaméni failed to score. Argentina remained flawless from the spot and ultimately claimed victory.

It was Argentina’s third World Cup title and the first for Lionel Messi.