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<p>Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez is still at it in his feud with French superstar Kylian Mbappe. During the victory parade through the streets of Buenos Aires on Tuesday, Martinez was spotted with a doll with Mbappe's face pasted on it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>What made the situation more awkward was the fact that Martinez was standing beside Mbappe's PSG teammate Lionel Messi. However, this is not the first time that Martinez has taken a shot at the 24-year-old Frenchman.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, a video clip from Argentina's dressing room after the World Cup win showed the entire squad celebrating the victory by singing and dancing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The squad could be heard chanting "a minute's silence for" in tandem when Martinez filled a deliberate pause with the shout: "For Mbappe who is dead!"</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-argentine-players-mock-kylian-mbappe-in-the-dressing-room-after-world-cup-victory-544419" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Argentine players mock Kylian Mbappe in the dressing room after World Cup victory</strong></a></p>

<p>Similarly, in the lead-up to the summit clash, Martinez resorted to playing mind games by targetting Mbappe. The Aston Villa keeper attacked the PSG stalwart over his previous statements about the quality of football in South America.</p>

<p>“He doesn’t know enough about football. He never played in South America. When you don’t have this experience, it may be better not to talk about it. But it doesn’t matter. We are a great team, recognised as such,” said Martinez.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 30-year-old was referring to statements made by Mbappe a few months ago where he said European nations are better prepared for World Cup compared to their South American counterparts.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Argentina haven't played games of great quality to reach the World Cup. In South America, football isn't as advanced as Europe. That's why if you look at the last World Cups it's always the Europeans that win."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-doesnt-know-enough-about-football-emiliano-martinez-about-kylian-mbappe-ahead-of-the-final-544202" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: 'He doesn't know enough about football': Emiliano Martinez about Kylian Mbappe ahead of the final</strong></a></p>

<p>While Martinez stood out with his superman-level goal-saving skills in the final, Mbappe fared superbly as well. He bagged a hattrick when his side was staring at a one-sided defeat. If it wasn't for Mbappe, the game would have been dead-and-buried at the end of 90 minutes.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez is still at it in his feud with French superstar Kylian Mbappe. During the victory parade through the streets of Buenos Aires on Tuesday, Martinez was spotted with a doll with Mbappe's face pasted on it.

Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez is still at it in his feud with French superstar Kylian Mbappe. During the victory parade through the streets of Buenos Aires on Tuesday, Martinez was spotted with a doll with Mbappe's face pasted on it. What made the situation more awkward was the fact that Martinez was standing beside Mbappe's PSG teammate Lionel Messi. However, this is not the first time that Martinez has taken a shot at the 24-year-old Frenchman. Notably, a video clip from Argentina's dressing room after the World Cup win showed the entire squad celebrating the victory by singing and dancing. The squad could be heard chanting "a minute's silence for" in tandem when Martinez filled a deliberate pause with the shout: "For Mbappe who is dead!" WATCH: Argentine players mock Kylian Mbappe in the dressing room after World Cup victory Similarly, in the lead-up to the summit clash, Martinez resorted to playing mind games by targetting Mbappe. The Aston Villa keeper attacked the PSG stalwart over his previous statements about the quality of football in South America. “He doesn’t know enough about football. He never played in South America. When you don’t have this experience, it may be better not to talk about it. But it doesn’t matter. We are a great team, recognised as such,” said Martinez. The 30-year-old was referring to statements made by Mbappe a few months ago where he said European nations are better prepared for World Cup compared to their South American counterparts. "Argentina haven't played games of great quality to reach the World Cup. In South America, football isn't as advanced as Europe. That's why if you look at the last World Cups it's always the Europeans that win." Read more: 'He doesn't know enough about football': Emiliano Martinez about Kylian Mbappe ahead of the final While Martinez stood out with his superman-level goal-saving skills in the final, Mbappe fared superbly as well. He bagged a hattrick when his side was staring at a one-sided defeat. If it wasn't for Mbappe, the game would have been dead-and-buried at the end of 90 minutes. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

FEUDING! Emiliano Martinez continues to mock Kylian Mbappe, this time through a baby doll

<p>Adored by millions of fans across the world, Lionel Messi is one of the greatest to have ever played the sport. The Argentine's legacy has transcended to an extent that the rival south American country of Brazil is now inviting him to leave his footprints at the iconic Maracana Stadium to 'eternalise' them.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Adriano Santos, president of the Rio de Janeiro State Sports Superintendence, responsible for running the stadium wrote a letter to Messi through the Argentine FA (AFA) and extended the invitation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Messi has already demonstrated his importance on and off the pitch. He is a player who has been at the highest level in the history of football for years," read the letter.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“And nothing could be more fitting than for the Maracana to also pay tribute to him. After all, Messi is a genius with the ball."</p>

<p>This is not the first time that Messi has received such a proposal from Brazil. After La Albiceleste won Copa America last year, beating Brazil, the stadium extended the invitation.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/record-breaking-messis-world-cup-instagram-picture-becomes-the-most-liked-social-media-post-ever-544979"><strong>Read more:&nbsp;Record-breaking: Messi's World Cup Instagram picture becomes the most-liked social media post ever</strong></a></p>

<p>If Messi accepts the offer, he will join the illustrious list of players to have their footprints immortalized at the stadium. Pele, Ronaldo,&nbsp;Garrincha, Rivelino, Elias Figueroa, Eusebio, Dejan Petkovic, Sebastian Abreu and Franz Beckenbauer are the current members of Maracana's Hall of Fame.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Messi was instrumental in Argentina breaking a 36-year World Cup trophy drought. After Argentina suffered a shock defeat in the first match of the tournament against Saudi Arabia, it was Messi that galvanised his team and managed to extract the best out of them.</p>

<p>During the final, the little magician was one of the best players on the pitch as he found the back of the net twice and managed to successfully convert from the spot during the penalty kicks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the end, Messi finished the tournament with seven goals and three assists, as well as the Golden Ball award, his second at the World Cup finals.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Adored by millions of fans across the world, Lionel Messi is one of the greatest to have ever played the sport. The Argentine's legacy has transcended to an extent that the rival south American country of Brazil is now inviting him to leave his footprints at the iconic Maracana Stadium to 'eternalise' them.

Adored by millions of fans across the world, Lionel Messi is one of the greatest to have ever played the sport. The Argentine's legacy has transcended to an extent that the rival south American country of Brazil is now inviting him to leave his footprints at the iconic Maracana Stadium to 'eternalise' them. Adriano Santos, president of the Rio de Janeiro State Sports Superintendence, responsible for running the stadium wrote a letter to Messi through the Argentine FA (AFA) and extended the invitation. "Messi has already demonstrated his importance on and off the pitch. He is a player who has been at the highest level in the history of football for years," read the letter. “And nothing could be more fitting than for the Maracana to also pay tribute to him. After all, Messi is a genius with the ball." This is not the first time that Messi has received such a proposal from Brazil. After La Albiceleste won Copa America last year, beating Brazil, the stadium extended the invitation. Read more: Record-breaking: Messi's World Cup Instagram picture becomes the most-liked social media post ever If Messi accepts the offer, he will join the illustrious list of players to have their footprints immortalized at the stadium. Pele, Ronaldo, Garrincha, Rivelino, Elias Figueroa, Eusebio, Dejan Petkovic, Sebastian Abreu and Franz Beckenbauer are the current members of Maracana's Hall of Fame. Messi was instrumental in Argentina breaking a 36-year World Cup trophy drought. After Argentina suffered a shock defeat in the first match of the tournament against Saudi Arabia, it was Messi that galvanised his team and managed to extract the best out of them. During the final, the little magician was one of the best players on the pitch as he found the back of the net twice and managed to successfully convert from the spot during the penalty kicks. In the end, Messi finished the tournament with seven goals and three assists, as well as the Golden Ball award, his second at the World Cup finals. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Brazil invites Lionel Messi to have his footprints immortalised at the Maracana Stadium

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<p>Argentina might be the World Cup champions but they are still not the world's no. 1 ranked team, according to newly updated FIFA rankings.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As soon as the rankings were released, the netizens, especially Argentinian fans found themselves scratching their heads as to what Argentina needed to do to catapult itself to the top of the table.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Argentina's South American rival Brazil, despite crashing out of the World Cup at the quarterfinal stage have managed to hold on to the numero uno position. The Selecao have been perched atop the ranking table since February.</p>

<p>Brazil won three and lost two games at the WC while Argentina won four games, lost one against Saudi Arabia while emerging victorious in two after penalty shootouts.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to FIFA ranking rules, a win inside the regulation time or even before the end of two extra-time quarters carries additional FIFA ranking points. If Argentina had won its two penalty shootout matches inside the regulation time, it would have been crowned the no. 1 in the rankings.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Argentina have won two international titles in the space of last year - the Copa America in Brazil and now the World Cup in Qatar. However, they still need to amass a few more victories to nudge ahead of Brazil.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-world-cup-qatar-2022-may-have-lost-many-battles-but-won-the-war-544566" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: FIFA World Cup: Qatar 2022 may have lost many battles but won the war</strong></a></p>

<p>France, the runner-ups at the World Cup are behind Argentina on the third place while Belgium have tumbled two ranking positions to land on fourth after making a league stage exit.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Argentina in the WC final</strong></p>

<p>Argentina beat France in the World Cup final on Sunday on penalties after the game ended 3-3 at the end of extra time. Argentine goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez put in another incredible shift during the shootout as he managed to keep two French players at bay.</p>

<p>Earlier, it was Argentina's talisman Lionel Messi that scored twice to put his team on the cusp of a victory before 23-year-old Kylian Mbappe stepped up and managed to take the game to the very end.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>New FIFA ranking top 20:&nbsp;</strong>1. Brazil 2. Argentina 3. France 4. Belgium 5. England 6. Netherlands 7. Croatia 8. Italy 9. Portugal 10. Spain 11. Morocco 12. Switzerland 13. USA 14. Germany 15. Mexico 16. Uruguay 17. Colombia 18. Denmark 19. Senegal 20. Japan.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>


Argentina might be the World Cup champions but they are still not the world's no. 1 ranked team, according to newly updated FIFA rankings. As soon as the rankings were released, the netizens, especially Argentinian fans found themselves scratching their heads as to what Argentina needed to do to catapult itself to the top of the table.

Argentina might be the World Cup champions but they are still not the world's no. 1 ranked team, according to newly updated FIFA rankings. As soon as the rankings were released, the netizens, especially Argentinian fans found themselves scratching their heads as to what Argentina needed to do to catapult itself to the top of the table. Meanwhile, Argentina's South American rival Brazil, despite crashing out of the World Cup at the quarterfinal stage have managed to hold on to the numero uno position. The Selecao have been perched atop the ranking table since February. Brazil won three and lost two games at the WC while Argentina won four games, lost one against Saudi Arabia while emerging victorious in two after penalty shootouts. According to FIFA ranking rules, a win inside the regulation time or even before the end of two extra-time quarters carries additional FIFA ranking points. If Argentina had won its two penalty shootout matches inside the regulation time, it would have been crowned the no. 1 in the rankings. Argentina have won two international titles in the space of last year - the Copa America in Brazil and now the World Cup in Qatar. However, they still need to amass a few more victories to nudge ahead of Brazil. Read more: FIFA World Cup: Qatar 2022 may have lost many battles but won the war France, the runner-ups at the World Cup are behind Argentina on the third place while Belgium have tumbled two ranking positions to land on fourth after making a league stage exit. Argentina in the WC final Argentina beat France in the World Cup final on Sunday on penalties after the game ended 3-3 at the end of extra time. Argentine goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez put in another incredible shift during the shootout as he managed to keep two French players at bay. Earlier, it was Argentina's talisman Lionel Messi that scored twice to put his team on the cusp of a victory before 23-year-old Kylian Mbappe stepped up and managed to take the game to the very end. New FIFA ranking top 20: 1. Brazil 2. Argentina 3. France 4. Belgium 5. England 6. Netherlands 7. Croatia 8. Italy 9. Portugal 10. Spain 11. Morocco 12. Switzerland 13. USA 14. Germany 15. Mexico 16. Uruguay 17. Colombia 18. Denmark 19. Senegal 20. Japan. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE: Watch WION LIVE HERE:

FIFA rankings: Argentina not the no. 1 ranked team despite winning the World Cup. Know why.

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<p>Argentina beat France in the World Cup final on Sunday on penalties after the game ended 3-3 at the end of extra time. Argentine goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez put in another incredible shift during the shootout as he managed to keep two French players at bay. Now, a Twitter thread by a netizen has revealed the tactics that Martinez employed during the shootout&nbsp;</p>

<p>The user noted that Martinez commanded the penalty shootout from the start when he stood alone in the penalty area while his compatriot and France captain Hugo Lloris went for the toss.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lloris entering the warzone second meant that Martinez had established boundaries about the arena being his. Afterwards, Martinez gently started accessing referee Szymon Marciniak to the extent he could push his luck with him.&nbsp;</p>

<p>When Kylian Mbappe stepped up to take the kick, Martinez first went to him, shook his hands and gave an aura of friendliness. At the very next moment, he stepped back and pointed to the referee to keep the ball in its designated spot.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The ball was in the right spot from the beginning but Martinez was imposing himself in the situation. The referee bent down, took a look and gave a thumbs-up to the goalie.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/argentinas-emiliano-martinez-explains-reason-behind-his-lewd-gesture-with-fifa-golden-glove-award-544811" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: Argentina's Emiliano Martinez explains reason behind his lewd gesture with FIFA Golden Glove award</strong></a></p>

<p>Though Mbappe converted the penalty, Martinez received the message that he could nudge the referee a little further.&nbsp;</p>

<p>When Bayern Munich winger Kingsley Coman came to the spot, Martinez upped the ante a little and again pestered the referee to check the ball, only to receive a not-so-positive response from the Polish official. The trick works this time and Coman misses the penalty.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Apart from trying to rattle the penalty takers, Martinez is street-smart enough to shield his teammates from the opposition goalkeeper. He picks the ball after French penalties and hands it to his player so that they can cooly take the kick.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Argentina is world champion after a penalty shootout master class. At the core of their performance is goalkeeper Emi Martinez' mind games.<br />
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Martinez dominated the French penalty takers, forcing two misses.<br />
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Here’s a step-by-step description of his tricks in the final. Thread. 1/ <a href="https://t.co/iujg2Sk1U0">pic.twitter.com/iujg2Sk1U0</a></p>
— Geir Jordet (@GeirJordet) <a href="https://twitter.com/GeirJordet/status/1604820622047150082?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Martinez is not shy when it comes to using his verbal prowess to intimidate the opposition either. He senses that Kolo Muani can be thrown off so he begins mouthing, “I’ve watched you!”.</p>

<p>Martinez's bag of tricks is full of such antics which he has used throughout his career. It is perhaps the reason he has been able to have such a remarkable record when it comes to penalty shootouts. If Argentina are currently going gaga over the World Cup win, they owe a significant debt for it to Martinez and his crazy yet calculated tricks.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

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Argentina beat France in the World Cup final on Sunday on penalties after the game ended 3-3 at the end of extra time. Argentine goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez put in another incredible shift during the shootout as he managed to keep two French players at bay.

Argentina beat France in the World Cup final on Sunday on penalties after the game ended 3-3 at the end of extra time. Argentine goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez put in another incredible shift during the shootout as he managed to keep two French players at bay. Now, a Twitter thread by a netizen has revealed the tactics that Martinez employed during the shootout The user noted that Martinez commanded the penalty shootout from the start when he stood alone in the penalty area while his compatriot and France captain Hugo Lloris went for the toss. Lloris entering the warzone second meant that Martinez had established boundaries about the arena being his. Afterwards, Martinez gently started accessing referee Szymon Marciniak to the extent he could push his luck with him. When Kylian Mbappe stepped up to take the kick, Martinez first went to him, shook his hands and gave an aura of friendliness. At the very next moment, he stepped back and pointed to the referee to keep the ball in its designated spot. The ball was in the right spot from the beginning but Martinez was imposing himself in the situation. The referee bent down, took a look and gave a thumbs-up to the goalie. Read more: Argentina's Emiliano Martinez explains reason behind his lewd gesture with FIFA Golden Glove award Though Mbappe converted the penalty, Martinez received the message that he could nudge the referee a little further. When Bayern Munich winger Kingsley Coman came to the spot, Martinez upped the ante a little and again pestered the referee to check the ball, only to receive a not-so-positive response from the Polish official. The trick works this time and Coman misses the penalty. Apart from trying to rattle the penalty takers, Martinez is street-smart enough to shield his teammates from the opposition goalkeeper. He picks the ball after French penalties and hands it to his player so that they can cooly take the kick. Argentina is world champion after a penalty shootout master class. At the core of their performance is goalkeeper Emi Martinez' mind games. Martinez dominated the French penalty takers, forcing two misses. Here’s a step-by-step description of his tricks in the final. Thread. 1/ pic.twitter.com/iujg2Sk1U0 — Geir Jordet (@GeirJordet) December 19, 2022 × Martinez is not shy when it comes to using his verbal prowess to intimidate the opposition either. He senses that Kolo Muani can be thrown off so he begins mouthing, “I’ve watched you!”. Martinez's bag of tricks is full of such antics which he has used throughout his career. It is perhaps the reason he has been able to have such a remarkable record when it comes to penalty shootouts. If Argentina are currently going gaga over the World Cup win, they owe a significant debt for it to Martinez and his crazy yet calculated tricks. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

FIFA World Cup 2022:Tricks used by Emiliano Martinez during penalty shootout explained in this viral thread

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<p>Argentine superstar Lionel Messi cemented his legacy as one of the greatest of all time on Sunday after his side beat France to win the FIFA World Cup. While Messi achieved the biggest milestone he aspired to achieve, he hit another one albeit in the digital space.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Messi became the second person in internet history to reach the 400 million followers mark on Instagram behind his rival Cristiano Ronaldo. The Argentine magician managed to gain more than 24 million followers since the World Cup began after his pre-tournament tally stood at 376 million.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Messi reached another landmark when his first celebratory post after the World Cup win became the most-liked Instagram post by a sportsperson. The post, so far, has amassed more than 57 million likes and has overtaken Ronaldo's post of him and Messi playing chess for an advertisement campaign.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/unbelievable-cristiano-ronaldo-becomes-first-ever-to-clock-500m-followers-on-instagram-536105" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: UNBELIEVABLE! Cristiano Ronaldo becomes first-ever to clock 500m followers on Instagram</strong></a></p>

<p>"WORLD CHAMPIONS!!!!!!! I dreamed it so many times, I wanted it so much that I still haven't fallen, I can't believe it," read the post.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Thank you very much to my family, to all who support me and also to all who believed in us. We demonstrate once again that Argentines when we fight together and united we are capable of achieving what we set out to do. The merit belongs to this group, which is above individualities, it is the strength of all fighting for the same dream that was also the dream of all Argentines... We did it!!! GO ARGENTINA!!!!! we are seeing each other very soon," it added.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Messi was instrumental in Argentina reaching the final of the quadrennial event and played an even more significant part in the summit clash by dispatching two goals. After Argentina lost the first match against Saudi Arabia, rather shockingly, it was Messi that promised his fans that he will not let them down.&nbsp;</p>

<p>True to his words, Messi managed to inspire his team to go on a winning streak thereon and demolish opponents along the way. Messi ended the tournament with 7 goals and 3 assists, becoming the proud owner of the Golden Ball award, his second at the World Cup finals.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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Argentine superstar Lionel Messi cemented his legacy as one of the greatest of all time on Sunday after his side beat France to win the FIFA World Cup. While Messi achieved the biggest milestone he aspired to achieve, he hit another one albeit in the digital space.

Argentine superstar Lionel Messi cemented his legacy as one of the greatest of all time on Sunday after his side beat France to win the FIFA World Cup. While Messi achieved the biggest milestone he aspired to achieve, he hit another one albeit in the digital space. Messi became the second person in internet history to reach the 400 million followers mark on Instagram behind his rival Cristiano Ronaldo. The Argentine magician managed to gain more than 24 million followers since the World Cup began after his pre-tournament tally stood at 376 million. Messi reached another landmark when his first celebratory post after the World Cup win became the most-liked Instagram post by a sportsperson. The post, so far, has amassed more than 57 million likes and has overtaken Ronaldo's post of him and Messi playing chess for an advertisement campaign. Read more: UNBELIEVABLE! Cristiano Ronaldo becomes first-ever to clock 500m followers on Instagram "WORLD CHAMPIONS!!!!!!! I dreamed it so many times, I wanted it so much that I still haven't fallen, I can't believe it," read the post. "Thank you very much to my family, to all who support me and also to all who believed in us. We demonstrate once again that Argentines when we fight together and united we are capable of achieving what we set out to do. The merit belongs to this group, which is above individualities, it is the strength of all fighting for the same dream that was also the dream of all Argentines... We did it!!! GO ARGENTINA!!!!! we are seeing each other very soon," it added. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Leo Messi (@leomessi) × Messi was instrumental in Argentina reaching the final of the quadrennial event and played an even more significant part in the summit clash by dispatching two goals. After Argentina lost the first match against Saudi Arabia, rather shockingly, it was Messi that promised his fans that he will not let them down. True to his words, Messi managed to inspire his team to go on a winning streak thereon and demolish opponents along the way. Messi ended the tournament with 7 goals and 3 assists, becoming the proud owner of the Golden Ball award, his second at the World Cup finals. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

UNBELIEVABLE! Lionel Messi becomes second person to reach 400 million followers on Instagram

In pics | Celebrations begin in Argentina as World cup heroes land in Buenos Aires

<p>Argentina's World Cup heroes touched down in the capital city of Buenos Aires in the wee hours of Tuesday, ahead of a planned grand parade.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The victorious Argentina team pushed off from a flight in Rome before touching down at the Ezeiza International Airport where they were greeted by thousands of fans.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The first to step out of the plane was Argentine talisman Lionel Messi who cradled the much cherished golden World Cup trophy alongside him. Following Messi was coach Lionel Scaloni whose brilliant man-management and tactical fluidity led Argentina to the promised land.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The players were given a red-carpet welcome after which they made their way to a white open-top bus with 'World Champion' in Spanish written on the side. Three stars, referring to the three World Cups Argentina has won were also placed along the quote.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-world-cup-2022-im-not-gonna-retire-announces-lionel-messi-after-wc-victory-544375"><strong>Read more:&nbsp;FIFA World Cup 2022: 'I’m not...': Lionel Messi drops a BOMB on his future after lifting the mega title&nbsp;</strong></a></p>

<p>Such was the excitement of fans that they were willing to stay with the team wherever they went.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We will be here all night and tomorrow as well. Tomorrow we are not working, we won't do anything and we'll go directly to the Obelisk with Argentina," 25-year-old&nbsp;Ayrton Kerdocas, a student was quoted as saying by AFP outside the airport.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The players and staff will be spending the night at the Argentine Football Association (AFA) training complex, near the airport.</p>

<p>After earning the well-deserved rest, the squad, around mid-day will head to the iconic Obelisk monument for a tour of the Buenos Aires city centre. Millions are expected to throng the streets of Buenos Aires and join the parade.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to reports, at one time, the plane carrying the Argentine heroes was being tracked by as many as 176,000 people.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Argentina won on penalties</strong></p>

<p>Argentina beat France in the World Cup final on Sunday on penalties (4-2) after the game ended 3-3 at the end of extra time. Messi scored twice while France superstar bagged a hattrick to take the game to the very deep.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the end, it was goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez's brilliance that allowed Messi and his teammates to fulfill the Argentine dream.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Argentina's World Cup heroes touched down in the capital city of Buenos Aires in the wee hours of Tuesday, ahead of a planned grand parade. The victorious Argentina team pushed off from a flight in Rome before touching down at the Ezeiza International Airport where they were greeted by thousands of fans.

Argentina's World Cup heroes touched down in the capital city of Buenos Aires in the wee hours of Tuesday, ahead of a planned grand parade. The victorious Argentina team pushed off from a flight in Rome before touching down at the Ezeiza International Airport where they were greeted by thousands of fans. The first to step out of the plane was Argentine talisman Lionel Messi who cradled the much cherished golden World Cup trophy alongside him. Following Messi was coach Lionel Scaloni whose brilliant man-management and tactical fluidity led Argentina to the promised land. The players were given a red-carpet welcome after which they made their way to a white open-top bus with 'World Champion' in Spanish written on the side. Three stars, referring to the three World Cups Argentina has won were also placed along the quote. Read more: FIFA World Cup 2022: 'I’m not...': Lionel Messi drops a BOMB on his future after lifting the mega title Such was the excitement of fans that they were willing to stay with the team wherever they went. "We will be here all night and tomorrow as well. Tomorrow we are not working, we won't do anything and we'll go directly to the Obelisk with Argentina," 25-year-old Ayrton Kerdocas, a student was quoted as saying by AFP outside the airport. The players and staff will be spending the night at the Argentine Football Association (AFA) training complex, near the airport. After earning the well-deserved rest, the squad, around mid-day will head to the iconic Obelisk monument for a tour of the Buenos Aires city centre. Millions are expected to throng the streets of Buenos Aires and join the parade. According to reports, at one time, the plane carrying the Argentine heroes was being tracked by as many as 176,000 people. Argentina won on penalties Argentina beat France in the World Cup final on Sunday on penalties (4-2) after the game ended 3-3 at the end of extra time. Messi scored twice while France superstar bagged a hattrick to take the game to the very deep. In the end, it was goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez's brilliance that allowed Messi and his teammates to fulfill the Argentine dream. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Argentina's World Cup heroes touch down in Buenos Aires ahead of the grand parade

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<p>The Argentines were an ecstatic bunch after the team triumphed in arguably, the greatest football game of all time to win the FIFA World Cup. During celebrations, however, goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez appeared to mock French superstar Kylian Mbappe, souring the mood of a few of the fans.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A video clip snapped from 'Instagram Live' done by Argentine defender Nichola Otamendi shows the entire squad celebrating the WC victory in the changing room by singing and dancing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The squad could be heard chanting "a minute's silence for" in tandem when Martinez filled a deliberate pause with the shout: "For Mbappe who is dead!"</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">"A minute of silence for ... Mbappe!" 😅<br />
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Emiliano Martinez during Argentina's dressing room celebration.<br />
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(via nicolasotamendi30/Instagram) <a href="https://t.co/dwm3IrUNWG">pic.twitter.com/dwm3IrUNWG</a></p>
— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ESPNFC/status/1604594960665382914?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>The clip has since gone viral on social media with many fans terming Martinez's action unnecessary and souring an otherwise joyful occasion.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While the Argentine was seemingly mocking Mbappe in the clip, another video showed him walking to the French striker after the end of the match to console him.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-world-cup-2022-im-not-gonna-retire-announces-lionel-messi-after-wc-victory-544375" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: FIFA World Cup 2022: 'I’m not...': Lionel Messi drops a BOMB on his future after lifting the mega title</strong></a></p>

<p>Argentina beat France 4-2 on penalties after the match ended all square 3-3 after extra time. Though Mbappe covered his penalty kick, his teammates Aurelien Tchouameni and Kingsley Coman could not put the ball to the back of net as Martinez managed to steer Argentina to the elusive WC trophy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, if it wasn't for Mbappe, Argentina would have run away with the match, before the full-time whistle.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It was Mbappe that fired the ball to the back of the Argentine net past Martinez, twice, in the space of 97 seconds to bring France back into the competition.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-world-cup-2022-im-not-gonna-retire-announces-lionel-messi-after-wc-victory-544375" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: FIFA World Cup 2022: Mesmerising Messi’s Argentina fulfill the dream by beating France on penalties in final</strong></a></p>

<p>He beat Martinez's goal once again in extra time to force the game to penalties. The three goals in the final earned Mbappe the Golden Boot trophy as he finished the tournament with eight goals in his bag.</p>

<p>At the young age of 23, Mbappe is destined for a career similar to, if not better than Messi. He already has a World Cup in his armoury and could have had another, if it wasn't for Messi's brilliance.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


The Argentines were an ecstatic bunch after the team triumphed in arguably, the greatest football game of all time to win the FIFA World Cup. During celebrations, however, goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez appeared to mock French superstar Kylian Mbappe, souring the mood of a few of the fans.

The Argentines were an ecstatic bunch after the team triumphed in arguably, the greatest football game of all time to win the FIFA World Cup. During celebrations, however, goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez appeared to mock French superstar Kylian Mbappe, souring the mood of a few of the fans. A video clip snapped from 'Instagram Live' done by Argentine defender Nichola Otamendi shows the entire squad celebrating the WC victory in the changing room by singing and dancing. The squad could be heard chanting "a minute's silence for" in tandem when Martinez filled a deliberate pause with the shout: "For Mbappe who is dead!" "A minute of silence for ... Mbappe!" 😅 Emiliano Martinez during Argentina's dressing room celebration. (via nicolasotamendi30/Instagram) pic.twitter.com/dwm3IrUNWG — ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) December 18, 2022 × The clip has since gone viral on social media with many fans terming Martinez's action unnecessary and souring an otherwise joyful occasion. While the Argentine was seemingly mocking Mbappe in the clip, another video showed him walking to the French striker after the end of the match to console him. Read more: FIFA World Cup 2022: 'I’m not...': Lionel Messi drops a BOMB on his future after lifting the mega title Argentina beat France 4-2 on penalties after the match ended all square 3-3 after extra time. Though Mbappe covered his penalty kick, his teammates Aurelien Tchouameni and Kingsley Coman could not put the ball to the back of net as Martinez managed to steer Argentina to the elusive WC trophy. However, if it wasn't for Mbappe, Argentina would have run away with the match, before the full-time whistle. It was Mbappe that fired the ball to the back of the Argentine net past Martinez, twice, in the space of 97 seconds to bring France back into the competition. Read more: FIFA World Cup 2022: Mesmerising Messi’s Argentina fulfill the dream by beating France on penalties in final He beat Martinez's goal once again in extra time to force the game to penalties. The three goals in the final earned Mbappe the Golden Boot trophy as he finished the tournament with eight goals in his bag. At the young age of 23, Mbappe is destined for a career similar to, if not better than Messi. He already has a World Cup in his armoury and could have had another, if it wasn't for Messi's brilliance. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

WATCH: Argentine players mock Kylian Mbappe in the dressing room after World Cup victory

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<p>In what comes as another jolly news for Argentine fans across the footballing landscape, their superstar Lionel Messi has indicated he has no plans of slowing down and that he wants to play as the world champion.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“No, I’m not going to&nbsp;retire from the national team. I want to keep playing as World Cup champions with Argentina shirt," Messi was quoted as saying by various media outlets after the match.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I wanted to close my career with this, it was the one that was missing so I can no longer ask for anything else. I was able to get the Copa America and now the World Cup that I had fought so hard for. I've got it at the end of my career."</p>

<p>Messi's sentiments were echoed by the national team coach Lionel Scaloni who said the little magician can continue to keep playing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“If he wants to keep playing, he will be with us. He is more than entitled to decide whether he wants to keep playing for Argentina or not or what he wants to do with his career," an emotional Scaloni told media after the match.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“He is such a huge player for us. It is such a pleasure for us to coach him and his teammates. Everything he transmits to his teammates is unparalleled - something I’ve never seen before.”</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-world-cup-2022-who-won-the-golden-boot-golden-glove-and-golden-ball-awards-544342" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: FIFA World Cup 2022: Who won the Golden Boot, Golden Glove and Golden Ball awards?</strong></a></p>

<p><strong>Messi and his world-class performance on the biggest stage</strong></p>

<p>Argentina beat France 4-2 on penalties after the match ended 3-3 at the end of extra time at the Lusail International Stadium.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Messi scored twice and converted from the spot during the penalty shootout to guide his team to the promised land.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Messi became the first player to win two Golden Ball awards, having previously bagged the trophy in the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Golden Ball award is given to the best player of the tournament, Mbappe came second to him while Croatia's Luka Modric finished third. The Argentine narrowly missed on the Golden Boot award as Mbapped (8) bagged a hattrick in the final to nudge ahead of him (7) by a goal.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With the WC triumph, Messi has joined the likes of Kempes and Maradona to have won the elusive trophy.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


In what comes as another jolly news for Argentine fans across the footballing landscape, their superstar Lionel Messi has indicated he has no plans of slowing down and that he wants to play as the world champion.

In what comes as another jolly news for Argentine fans across the footballing landscape, their superstar Lionel Messi has indicated he has no plans of slowing down and that he wants to play as the world champion. “No, I’m not going to retire from the national team. I want to keep playing as World Cup champions with Argentina shirt," Messi was quoted as saying by various media outlets after the match. "I wanted to close my career with this, it was the one that was missing so I can no longer ask for anything else. I was able to get the Copa America and now the World Cup that I had fought so hard for. I've got it at the end of my career." Messi's sentiments were echoed by the national team coach Lionel Scaloni who said the little magician can continue to keep playing. “If he wants to keep playing, he will be with us. He is more than entitled to decide whether he wants to keep playing for Argentina or not or what he wants to do with his career," an emotional Scaloni told media after the match. “He is such a huge player for us. It is such a pleasure for us to coach him and his teammates. Everything he transmits to his teammates is unparalleled - something I’ve never seen before.” Read more: FIFA World Cup 2022: Who won the Golden Boot, Golden Glove and Golden Ball awards? Messi and his world-class performance on the biggest stage Argentina beat France 4-2 on penalties after the match ended 3-3 at the end of extra time at the Lusail International Stadium. Messi scored twice and converted from the spot during the penalty shootout to guide his team to the promised land. Messi became the first player to win two Golden Ball awards, having previously bagged the trophy in the 2014 World Cup in Brazil. The Golden Ball award is given to the best player of the tournament, Mbappe came second to him while Croatia's Luka Modric finished third. The Argentine narrowly missed on the Golden Boot award as Mbapped (8) bagged a hattrick in the final to nudge ahead of him (7) by a goal. With the WC triumph, Messi has joined the likes of Kempes and Maradona to have won the elusive trophy. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

FIFA World Cup 2022: 'I’m not...': Lionel Messi drops a BOMB on his future after lifting the mega title

<p>The 26-day grand spectacle of the FIFA World Cup in Qatar reached its fitting climax on Sunday night. Argentina overcame France, the defending champions to lay their hands on the WC silverware after a long, arduous wait of 36 years. While the finale was thrilling, the entirety of the tournament was no different with several top talents coming to the fore and old stalwarts turning back the clock.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With the incredible array of talent at display, it was only inevitable that WION's sports team made its&nbsp;World Cup XI. However, it is to be noted that the dynamics of the individual players&nbsp;may not necessarily be great for the XI enlisted below. The XI&nbsp;is purely based on players that had an exceptional tournament in their respective positions.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>(4-3-3&nbsp;formation)</strong></p>

<p><strong>Goalkeeper: </strong>Emiliano Martinez (Goalkeeper)</p>

<p><strong>Defenders: </strong>Achraf Hakimi (Morocco), Josko Gvardiol (Croatia), Ibrahima Konate (France), Theo Hernandez (France)<br />
<br />
<strong>Midfielders: </strong>Jude Bellingham (England), Antoine Griezzmann (France); Luka Modric (Croatia)</p>

<p><strong>Forwards: </strong>Lionel Messi (Argentina) Kylian Mbappe (France), Julian Alvarez (Argentina)</p>

<p><strong>Manager: </strong>Louis van Gaal (Netherlands)</p>

<p><img alt="WION's World Cup XI" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ecacc85e-2200-4860-b063-38c58fad077f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/lineup%20%281%29.png" /></p>

<p><strong>Manager/Coach</strong></p>

<p>Morocco coach Walid&nbsp;Regragui could have easily made it as the manager of the squad but was pipped by Louis van Gaal by a tiny fraction. The Dutch showed exemplary tactical fluidity when chasing the game against Argentina that tipped the scales in his favour. van Gaal put Wout Weghorst and Luuk de Jong into the XI and used their aerial prowess to inflict a stunning comeback.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Formation</strong></p>

<p>We have gone with a 4-3-3&nbsp;formation which is flexible as it allows Lionel Messi, the Golden Boot winner of the tournament to loiter anywhere in the middle and do what he does best. Essentially, in possession, it becomes a 4-4-2&nbsp;with Alvarez and Mbappe as the top two with the likes of Messi and Griezzmann feeding them.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Goalkeeper</strong></p>

<p>Emiliano Martinez was a no-brainer in the goalpost after he carried his team through two penalty shootouts in the tournament. Prior to the final's penalty shootout, Martinez pulled off a miraculous save in the dying seconds of extra time to save the Argentines a massive heartache. For his shot-stopping ability and decent sweeping technique, Martinez makes the cut.</p>

<p>Alternatives: Dominik Livakovic (Croatia),&nbsp;Yassine Bounou (Morocco) and&nbsp;Wojciech Szczesny (Poland) were the other options that could have easily walked into the XI.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/unmissable-argentina-captain-lionel-messis-table-dance-with-fifa-world-cup-trophy-goes-viral-watch-544444"><strong>WATCH | UNMISSABLE! Argentina captain Lionel Messi's table dance with FIFA World Cup trophy goes viral</strong></a></p>

<p><strong>Defenders</strong></p>

<p>The back four was one of the preferred options by managers in the World Cup. The two central defenders flanked by the wing-backs who liked to push up the pitch was&nbsp;a strategy that reaped rich dividends.</p>

<p>In the playing XI, the backline is being marshalled by Josko Gvardiol, one of the brightest prospects to come out of the tournament and Ibrahima Konate.</p>

<p>The Liverpool defender may not have got as much game time as he would have liked but he was a Rolls Royce of a defender whenever he was given the opportunity. His shift in the semifinals was one of the reasons why France reached the final.&nbsp;</p>

<p>To the right of Konate we have Morocco's Achraf Hakimi who had an extra set of lungs on him throughout the World Cup. Though Morocco focused on defensive solidity at the back where Hakimi had to concentrate most of his focus, his offensive output was worth nothing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The left fullback position is occupied by Theo Hernandez. The AC Milan defender is one of the most talented left-backs in the world, if not the best. Hernandez likes staying high up during the attacking phases and make underlapping and overlapping runs through the winger.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Alternatives: Dayot Upamecano (France), John Stones (England), Roman Saiss (Morocco), Virgil Van Dijk (Netherlands)</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-world-cup-2022-messis-argentina-fulfill-the-dream-by-beating-france-on-penalties-in-the-wc-final-544328"><strong>Read more:&nbsp;FIFA World Cup 2022: Mesmerising Messi’s Argentina fulfill the dream by beating France on penalties in final</strong></a></p>

<p><strong>Midfielders</strong></p>

<p>The engine room of our playing XI is being led by 35-year-old Luka Modric who carried his team to yet another podium finish at the World Cup. Age appears to have not caught up with the Croatian maestro who alongside Mateo Kovacic and Marcelo Brozovic formed one of the most lethal midfield trios of the tournament.&nbsp;</p>

<p>England's 19-year-old Jude Bellingham is the obvious choice for the other spot as the teenage sensation lit up the WC with his physicality, ball progression and creativity. And when needed, the Borussia Dortmund player did not shy away from doing the dirty work.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The last piece of machinery in the midfield is Antoine Griezmann who quietly had one of the best tournaments. He was involved in nearly every major moment for the French side during their journey to the final. The freedom given by Didier Deschamps to him to loiter anywhere in the midfield allowed the creator in Griezmann to come to the fore.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Alternatives: Enzo Fernandez (Argentina), Sofyan Amrbat (Morocco), Casemiro (Brazil), Mateo Kovacic (Croatia)</p>

<p><strong>Forwards:</strong></p>

<p>The attacking trio picked itself as their performances demanded an almost certain selection. Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe, the Golden Ball and Golden Boot winners respectively had a standout tournament. They both pulled their team out of the hard moments single-handedly and lit up the WC on their own. Joining them is Manchester City forward Julian Alvarez who managed to bag four goals in the tournament and prove his mettle.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Alternatives: Olivier Giroud (France), Ferran Torres (Spain), Bukayo Saka (England), Richarlison (Brazil)</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


The 26-day grand spectacle of the FIFA World Cup in Qatar reached its fitting climax on Sunday night. Argentina overcame France, the defending champions to lay their hands on the WC silverware after a long, arduous wait of 36 years.

The 26-day grand spectacle of the FIFA World Cup in Qatar reached its fitting climax on Sunday night. Argentina overcame France, the defending champions to lay their hands on the WC silverware after a long, arduous wait of 36 years. While the finale was thrilling, the entirety of the tournament was no different with several top talents coming to the fore and old stalwarts turning back the clock. With the incredible array of talent at display, it was only inevitable that WION's sports team made its World Cup XI. However, it is to be noted that the dynamics of the individual players may not necessarily be great for the XI enlisted below. The XI is purely based on players that had an exceptional tournament in their respective positions. (4-3-3 formation) Goalkeeper: Emiliano Martinez (Goalkeeper) Defenders: Achraf Hakimi (Morocco), Josko Gvardiol (Croatia), Ibrahima Konate (France), Theo Hernandez (France) Midfielders: Jude Bellingham (England), Antoine Griezzmann (France); Luka Modric (Croatia) Forwards: Lionel Messi (Argentina) Kylian Mbappe (France), Julian Alvarez (Argentina) Manager: Louis van Gaal (Netherlands) Manager/Coach Morocco coach Walid Regragui could have easily made it as the manager of the squad but was pipped by Louis van Gaal by a tiny fraction. The Dutch showed exemplary tactical fluidity when chasing the game against Argentina that tipped the scales in his favour. van Gaal put Wout Weghorst and Luuk de Jong into the XI and used their aerial prowess to inflict a stunning comeback. Formation We have gone with a 4-3-3 formation which is flexible as it allows Lionel Messi, the Golden Boot winner of the tournament to loiter anywhere in the middle and do what he does best. Essentially, in possession, it becomes a 4-4-2 with Alvarez and Mbappe as the top two with the likes of Messi and Griezzmann feeding them. Goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez was a no-brainer in the goalpost after he carried his team through two penalty shootouts in the tournament. Prior to the final's penalty shootout, Martinez pulled off a miraculous save in the dying seconds of extra time to save the Argentines a massive heartache. For his shot-stopping ability and decent sweeping technique, Martinez makes the cut. Alternatives: Dominik Livakovic (Croatia), Yassine Bounou (Morocco) and Wojciech Szczesny (Poland) were the other options that could have easily walked into the XI. WATCH | UNMISSABLE! Argentina captain Lionel Messi's table dance with FIFA World Cup trophy goes viral Defenders The back four was one of the preferred options by managers in the World Cup. The two central defenders flanked by the wing-backs who liked to push up the pitch was a strategy that reaped rich dividends. In the playing XI, the backline is being marshalled by Josko Gvardiol, one of the brightest prospects to come out of the tournament and Ibrahima Konate. The Liverpool defender may not have got as much game time as he would have liked but he was a Rolls Royce of a defender whenever he was given the opportunity. His shift in the semifinals was one of the reasons why France reached the final. To the right of Konate we have Morocco's Achraf Hakimi who had an extra set of lungs on him throughout the World Cup. Though Morocco focused on defensive solidity at the back where Hakimi had to concentrate most of his focus, his offensive output was worth nothing. The left fullback position is occupied by Theo Hernandez. The AC Milan defender is one of the most talented left-backs in the world, if not the best. Hernandez likes staying high up during the attacking phases and make underlapping and overlapping runs through the winger. Alternatives: Dayot Upamecano (France), John Stones (England), Roman Saiss (Morocco), Virgil Van Dijk (Netherlands) Read more: FIFA World Cup 2022: Mesmerising Messi’s Argentina fulfill the dream by beating France on penalties in final Midfielders The engine room of our playing XI is being led by 35-year-old Luka Modric who carried his team to yet another podium finish at the World Cup. Age appears to have not caught up with the Croatian maestro who alongside Mateo Kovacic and Marcelo Brozovic formed one of the most lethal midfield trios of the tournament. England's 19-year-old Jude Bellingham is the obvious choice for the other spot as the teenage sensation lit up the WC with his physicality, ball progression and creativity. And when needed, the Borussia Dortmund player did not shy away from doing the dirty work. The last piece of machinery in the midfield is Antoine Griezmann who quietly had one of the best tournaments. He was involved in nearly every major moment for the French side during their journey to the final. The freedom given by Didier Deschamps to him to loiter anywhere in the midfield allowed the creator in Griezmann to come to the fore. Alternatives: Enzo Fernandez (Argentina), Sofyan Amrbat (Morocco), Casemiro (Brazil), Mateo Kovacic (Croatia) Forwards: The attacking trio picked itself as their performances demanded an almost certain selection. Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe, the Golden Ball and Golden Boot winners respectively had a standout tournament. They both pulled their team out of the hard moments single-handedly and lit up the WC on their own. Joining them is Manchester City forward Julian Alvarez who managed to bag four goals in the tournament and prove his mettle. Alternatives: Olivier Giroud (France), Ferran Torres (Spain), Bukayo Saka (England), Richarlison (Brazil) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

WION's FIFA World Cup 2022 best XI: Which players made the first team?

<p>On Sunday (December 18), Argentina defeated France in the FIFA World Cup 2022 final, at the Lusail Stadium, Qatar, to lift their first-ever WC title after 1986. Lionel Messi &amp; Co. dominated proceedings till the 80th minute, leading 2-0, before Kylian Mbappe's twin strikes brought his side back and stretched it to the extra time, which ended in a 3-3 scoreline taking the game to the penalty shootout. In the penalties, Argentina prevailed on top, by 4-2, to return home with the elusive title.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the game, Messi's fan's 2015 Twitter post has gone viral. In a tweet, the fan said, "December 18, 2022. 34 year old Leo Messi will win the World Cup and become the greatest player of all times. Check back with me in 7 years." The post caught everyone's attention prior to the FIFA WC finale but went viral in no time post Argentina's famous win over the defending champions France. <strong>Here's the tweet:</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">December 18, 2022. 34 year old Leo Messi will win the World Cup and become the greatest player of all times. Check back with me in 7 years.</p>
— José Miguel Polanco (@josepolanco10) <a href="https://twitter.com/josepolanco10/status/579016398694805504?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 20, 2015</a></blockquote>
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<p>It is to be noted that the post has become a huge hit on the social media platform Twitter, garnering&nbsp;in excess of 58,000 retweets and more than 1,50,000 likes.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/all-aligned-for-the-stars-heres-eerie-similarities-between-srts-2011-odi-wc-messis-fifa-wc-run-544485">All aligned for the 'stars'! Here's EERIE similarities between SRT's 2011 ODI WC &amp; Messi's FIFA WC run</a></strong></p>

<p>Talking about the 35-year-old Messi, he&nbsp;ended his World Cup run on an emphatic fashion. Having already revealed that the Qatar final will be his last-ever World Cup appearance, the Argentina captain couldn't have asked for a better end as his two goals kept the national side ahead in the contest and he also found the back of the net in the penalty shooutouts. The Argentina legend ended with the Golden Ball Award and became the first-ever to win it twice (having already won in the 2014 edition). Having lost the opportunity to win the FIFA WC in 2014, when Germany defeated Argentina in the final, Messi has moved past the past struggles to end his fifth and final WC appearance with the coveted title.&nbsp;</p>


On Sunday (December 18), Argentina defeated France in the FIFA World Cup 2022 final, at the Lusail Stadium, Qatar, to lift their first-ever WC title after 1986. Lionel Messi & Co.

On Sunday (December 18), Argentina defeated France in the FIFA World Cup 2022 final, at the Lusail Stadium, Qatar, to lift their first-ever WC title after 1986. Lionel Messi & Co. dominated proceedings till the 80th minute, leading 2-0, before Kylian Mbappe's twin strikes brought his side back and stretched it to the extra time, which ended in a 3-3 scoreline taking the game to the penalty shootout. In the penalties, Argentina prevailed on top, by 4-2, to return home with the elusive title. After the game, Messi's fan's 2015 Twitter post has gone viral. In a tweet, the fan said, "December 18, 2022. 34 year old Leo Messi will win the World Cup and become the greatest player of all times. Check back with me in 7 years." The post caught everyone's attention prior to the FIFA WC finale but went viral in no time post Argentina's famous win over the defending champions France. Here's the tweet: December 18, 2022. 34 year old Leo Messi will win the World Cup and become the greatest player of all times. Check back with me in 7 years. — José Miguel Polanco (@josepolanco10) March 20, 2015 × It is to be noted that the post has become a huge hit on the social media platform Twitter, garnering in excess of 58,000 retweets and more than 1,50,000 likes. Also read: All aligned for the 'stars'! Here's EERIE similarities between SRT's 2011 ODI WC & Messi's FIFA WC run Talking about the 35-year-old Messi, he ended his World Cup run on an emphatic fashion. Having already revealed that the Qatar final will be his last-ever World Cup appearance, the Argentina captain couldn't have asked for a better end as his two goals kept the national side ahead in the contest and he also found the back of the net in the penalty shooutouts. The Argentina legend ended with the Golden Ball Award and became the first-ever to win it twice (having already won in the 2014 edition). Having lost the opportunity to win the FIFA WC in 2014, when Germany defeated Argentina in the final, Messi has moved past the past struggles to end his fifth and final WC appearance with the coveted title.

'Check back with me in 7 years' - Lionel Messi's fan's 2015 prediction goes viral after Argentina win FIFA WC

<p>The FIFA World Cup 2022 edition lived up to expectations. The riveting group stage was followed by the Round of 16, hard-fought quarters, semi-finals before the final was one for the ages, involding Argentina and France. The two heavyweights locked horns, at the Lusail Stadium in Qatar, where Lionel Messi-led Argentina line-up ended their 36-year-drought to win the FIFA World Cup trophy in a nail-biting finale. After leading the French line-up 2-0 till the 80th minute, Argentina conceded two goals in succession before the match remained poised, at 3-3, after end of extra time. In the penalty shootout, Argentina edged past the defending champions, by a 4-2 margin, to end on a high.</p>

<p>Post the end of the FIFA WC, in Qatar, some eerie similarities have been brought forward between Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar's 2011 ODI World Cup run and Messi's overall journey in the recently-concluded event in the Middle East. <strong>Here are some glaring similarities:</strong></p>

<p><strong>1:</strong> Both donned Jersey No. 10</p>

<p><strong>2.</strong> Both Tendulkar and Messi had lost the World Cup final eight years back. SRT-starrer India had lost the 2003 ODI WC final whereas Argentina came second, versus Germany, in the 2014 final of the FIFA WC.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/who-earns-the-most-between-lionel-messi-or-kylian-mbappe-at-psg-find-out-544475">Who earns the most between Lionel Messi or Kylian Mbappe at PSG? Find out</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>3.&nbsp;</strong>Interestingly, Messi and Tendulkar were the Player-of-the-Match in the semi-finals of their respective victorious WC campaigns. SRT won it in India-Pakistan tie in 2011 whereas Messi returned with the award in the semi-final versus Croatia for solitary goal and splendid assist to Julian Alvarez.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>4.&nbsp;</strong>Both ended their last WC winning the coveted title. While Tendulkar won it in his sixth WC, Messi got to the feat in his fifth attempt.</p>

<p>After taking Argentina to the mega title, Messi spoke about his international future, having already cleared the air that this was his last WC. Post his side's historic win, he told TyC Sports, as quoted by Goal.com, "No, I'm not going to retiring from the Argentina national team. I want to continue playing as a champion." In addition, the 35-year-old returned with the Golden Ball Award, becoming the&nbsp;first player to win it twice (having earlier&nbsp;won in 2014).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Tendulkar took to his official Twitter handle and wrote, "Many congratulations to Argentina on doing this for Messi! Wonderful comeback from the way they started the campaign. Special mention to Martinez for the spectacular save towards the end of extra time. That was a clear indication to me that Argentina would clinch this."</p>

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The FIFA World Cup 2022 edition lived up to expectations. The riveting group stage was followed by the Round of 16, hard-fought quarters, semi-finals before the final was one for the ages, involding Argentina and France.

The FIFA World Cup 2022 edition lived up to expectations. The riveting group stage was followed by the Round of 16, hard-fought quarters, semi-finals before the final was one for the ages, involding Argentina and France. The two heavyweights locked horns, at the Lusail Stadium in Qatar, where Lionel Messi-led Argentina line-up ended their 36-year-drought to win the FIFA World Cup trophy in a nail-biting finale. After leading the French line-up 2-0 till the 80th minute, Argentina conceded two goals in succession before the match remained poised, at 3-3, after end of extra time. In the penalty shootout, Argentina edged past the defending champions, by a 4-2 margin, to end on a high. Post the end of the FIFA WC, in Qatar, some eerie similarities have been brought forward between Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar's 2011 ODI World Cup run and Messi's overall journey in the recently-concluded event in the Middle East. Here are some glaring similarities: 1: Both donned Jersey No. 10 2. Both Tendulkar and Messi had lost the World Cup final eight years back. SRT-starrer India had lost the 2003 ODI WC final whereas Argentina came second, versus Germany, in the 2014 final of the FIFA WC. Also read: Who earns the most between Lionel Messi or Kylian Mbappe at PSG? Find out 3. Interestingly, Messi and Tendulkar were the Player-of-the-Match in the semi-finals of their respective victorious WC campaigns. SRT won it in India-Pakistan tie in 2011 whereas Messi returned with the award in the semi-final versus Croatia for solitary goal and splendid assist to Julian Alvarez. 4. Both ended their last WC winning the coveted title. While Tendulkar won it in his sixth WC, Messi got to the feat in his fifth attempt. After taking Argentina to the mega title, Messi spoke about his international future, having already cleared the air that this was his last WC. Post his side's historic win, he told TyC Sports, as quoted by Goal.com, "No, I'm not going to retiring from the Argentina national team. I want to continue playing as a champion." In addition, the 35-year-old returned with the Golden Ball Award, becoming the first player to win it twice (having earlier won in 2014). Meanwhile, Tendulkar took to his official Twitter handle and wrote, "Many congratulations to Argentina on doing this for Messi! Wonderful comeback from the way they started the campaign. Special mention to Martinez for the spectacular save towards the end of extra time. That was a clear indication to me that Argentina would clinch this." ×

All aligned for the 'stars'! Here's EERIE similarities between SRT's 2011 ODI WC & Messi's FIFA WC run

<p>Lionel Messi's dream of lifting the World Cup was fulfilled on Sunday evening (December 18) with Argentina beating France in a stunning FIFA WC final at the Lusail Stadium, Qatar. Defending champions France took on Messi's Argentina and produced a final for the ages. While Messi and Angel Di Maria's goals took Argentina to a 2-0 lead, Kylian Mbappe's twin strikes ended the regulation time at 2-2. The extra time once again saw Messi &amp; Co. taking a 3-2 lead, in the 108th minute, before Mbappe struck once again and found the back of the net in the 118th minute to level the scores, 3-3, and take the game to the penalty shootout.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the shootouts, Argentina emerged on top, 4-2, courtesy of&nbsp;&nbsp;Emiliano Martínez's saves, and won its first-ever World Cup title since 1986. Messi also ended the debate for the Greatest of All Time, often being pitted alongside arch-rival Cristiano Ronaldo, by getting his hand on the WC trophy. After the pulsating affair, in front of a jam-packed stadium including many big names from various fields, Messi celebrated in style and his table-dance clip has gone viral in a jiffy. The 35-year-old entertained one and all with his moves in the Argentina dressing room. <strong>Here's the video:</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">LIONEL MESSI JUMPING ON THE TABLE IN THE DRESSING ROOM 😂<br />
<br />
(via <a href="https://twitter.com/Notamendi30?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Notamendi30</a>) <a href="https://t.co/WUTq3AmjKs">pic.twitter.com/WUTq3AmjKs</a></p>
— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ESPNFC/status/1604566690968264705?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-world-cup-2022-im-not-gonna-retire-announces-lionel-messi-after-wc-victory-544375">FIFA World Cup 2022: 'I’m not...': Lionel Messi drops a BOMB on his future after lifting the mega title</a></strong></p>

<p>After the game, Messi also spoke about his international future. Post his side's semi-final win, he revealed that the Qatar final will be his last World Cup appearance. While his last game in the mega event has lived up to expectations, the Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) striker made it clear that he isn't going anywhere and will continue to play at the international level as a 'champion'.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Messi told TyC Sports, as quoted by Goal.com,&nbsp;"No, I'm not going to retiring from the Argentina national team. I want to continue playing as a champion." In addition, the veteran&nbsp;ended with the Golden Ball Award, becoming the&nbsp;first ever to win the title twice (earlier he won it in 2014).</p>


Lionel Messi's dream of lifting the World Cup was fulfilled on Sunday evening (December 18) with Argentina beating France in a stunning FIFA WC final at the Lusail Stadium, Qatar.

Lionel Messi's dream of lifting the World Cup was fulfilled on Sunday evening (December 18) with Argentina beating France in a stunning FIFA WC final at the Lusail Stadium, Qatar. Defending champions France took on Messi's Argentina and produced a final for the ages. While Messi and Angel Di Maria's goals took Argentina to a 2-0 lead, Kylian Mbappe's twin strikes ended the regulation time at 2-2. The extra time once again saw Messi & Co. taking a 3-2 lead, in the 108th minute, before Mbappe struck once again and found the back of the net in the 118th minute to level the scores, 3-3, and take the game to the penalty shootout. In the shootouts, Argentina emerged on top, 4-2, courtesy of Emiliano Martínez's saves, and won its first-ever World Cup title since 1986. Messi also ended the debate for the Greatest of All Time, often being pitted alongside arch-rival Cristiano Ronaldo, by getting his hand on the WC trophy. After the pulsating affair, in front of a jam-packed stadium including many big names from various fields, Messi celebrated in style and his table-dance clip has gone viral in a jiffy. The 35-year-old entertained one and all with his moves in the Argentina dressing room. Here's the video: LIONEL MESSI JUMPING ON THE TABLE IN THE DRESSING ROOM 😂 (via @Notamendi30) pic.twitter.com/WUTq3AmjKs — ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) December 18, 2022 × Also read: FIFA World Cup 2022: 'I’m not...': Lionel Messi drops a BOMB on his future after lifting the mega title After the game, Messi also spoke about his international future. Post his side's semi-final win, he revealed that the Qatar final will be his last World Cup appearance. While his last game in the mega event has lived up to expectations, the Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) striker made it clear that he isn't going anywhere and will continue to play at the international level as a 'champion'. Messi told TyC Sports, as quoted by Goal.com, "No, I'm not going to retiring from the Argentina national team. I want to continue playing as a champion." In addition, the veteran ended with the Golden Ball Award, becoming the first ever to win the title twice (earlier he won it in 2014).

UNMISSABLE! Argentina captain Lionel Messi's table dance with FIFA World Cup trophy goes viral - Watch

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<p>It was Lionel Messi's last dance on the World Cup stage, in perhaps one of the most thrilling finals ever. It was&nbsp;a grand finale to the tournament coinciding with the Argentine star’s last World Cup. And if the start against Saudi Arabia was as anticlimactic as they come, the end was just as romantic, thrilling and visceral as it could have been.</p>

<p>Argentina beat France 4-2&nbsp;on penalties after the match ended&nbsp;3-3&nbsp;at the end of extra time&nbsp;at the Lusail International Stadium in front of a majority Argentine crowd that never once let its voice down.</p>

<p>A spectacular save from Martinez to deny Aurélien Tchouaméni and a miss from Kingsley Coman allowed Argentina to clinch the WC trophy after going through a plethora of emotions through the course of the match.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Two goals from Argentina's talisman Messi and one from Angel Di Maria were not enough for Argentina to get ahead as Mbappe smashed a first World Cup hat-trick to take the game to penalties.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A bundle of narratives were weaved prior to the match, none as bigger and often asked as Messi or Mbappe? The answer, though, should have been a no-brainer from the get-go. It was merely the passing of the baton from one generation to another. Both players complete in their own styles and capable to take their team to victory shores fought hard and shone bright but it was Messi that came out on top.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Argentina nearly win it</strong></p>

<p>France were pinned back within the first 10 minutes as a powerful goal-inbound shot from de Paul in the eighth minute hit a French defender and crashed across the byline.&nbsp; Prior to it, a thumping effort from Alexis Mac Allister hit straight to Lloris was pouched by the Tottenham keeper.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Argentina with their buccaneering attitude kept coming back and managed to earn the well-deserved advantage in the 23rd minute via a Messi penalty.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The penalty was earned by none other than Angel Di Maria who had Dembele on tenterhooks since the beginning of the game. With France tucked in a compact shape, the winger was forced to do the defensive work but came up short against the Argentine.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Lusail witnesses the <a href="https://twitter.com/Oficial7DiMaria?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Oficial7DiMaria</a> MANIA 💥<br />
<br />
The man for the BIG OCCASION with a splendid finish ⭐<br />
<br />
Keep watching the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FIFAWorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FIFAWorldCup</a> Final ➡ LIVE on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JioCinema?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JioCinema</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Sports18?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Sports18</a> 📺📲<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ARGFRA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ARGFRA</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ArgentinaVsFrance?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ArgentinaVsFrance</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Qatar2022?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Qatar2022</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FIFAWConJioCinema?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FIFAWConJioCinema</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FIFAWConSports18?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FIFAWConSports18</a> <a href="https://t.co/1S9SNBnsjq">pic.twitter.com/1S9SNBnsjq</a></p>
— JioCinema (@JioCinema) <a href="https://twitter.com/JioCinema/status/1604511426386677760?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-argentina-lead-through-messi-and-di-marias-strike-in-the-final-of-fifa-wc-2022-544309" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH | Argentina lead through Messi and Di Maria's strike in the final of FIFA WC 2022</strong></a></p>

<p>After the goal, one would have thought that Deschamps' men would pick up the pace and counter-attack. However, it was Argentina that dictated the play and through sustained pressure managed to double the lead in the 36th minute.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A swift move started by Messi with an outside-of-the-boot touch in the right-side half-space to Alvarez who guided it to Mac Allister. The Brighton player charged across the turf and calmly placed the ball at the feet of Di Maria who had no trouble in finding the back of the net from that distance.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Lusail witnesses the <a href="https://twitter.com/Oficial7DiMaria?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Oficial7DiMaria</a> MANIA 💥<br />
<br />
The man for the BIG OCCASION with a splendid finish ⭐<br />
<br />
Keep watching the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FIFAWorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FIFAWorldCup</a> Final ➡ LIVE on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JioCinema?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JioCinema</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Sports18?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Sports18</a> 📺📲<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ARGFRA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ARGFRA</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ArgentinaVsFrance?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ArgentinaVsFrance</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Qatar2022?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Qatar2022</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FIFAWConJioCinema?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FIFAWConJioCinema</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FIFAWConSports18?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FIFAWConSports18</a> <a href="https://t.co/1S9SNBnsjq">pic.twitter.com/1S9SNBnsjq</a></p>
— JioCinema (@JioCinema) <a href="https://twitter.com/JioCinema/status/1604511426386677760?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>France make a comeback</strong></p>

<p>After the two goals, Deschamps was forced to make quick substitutions around the 40-minute mark as Giroud and Dembele were hooked and replaced by Marcus Thuram and last-match goalscorer Randal Kolo Muani.</p>

<p>With Argentina firmly in the driving seat, Scaloni opted for defensive changes in the second half as Di Maria was replaced by Acuna. And that turned the game on its head. France jumped to life in the 80th minute when Kolo Muani drove at full tilt in the opposition box and got Otamendi to foul him.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Mbappe converted&nbsp;from the spot and nearly 97 seconds later, rifled a half-volley past Martinez to bring France right back into the competition.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The game ended level after 90 minutes and the first quarter of extra time went without much development. However, in the second half of the extra time, Messi produced another moment of brilliance to beat Lloris and bring Argentina to the cusp.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Just when it looked like France were dead and buried, Mbappe, the 23-year-old youngster brought another special trick from his drawer and managed to stun the full-house Argentine crowd.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Scaloni's tactical masterclass</strong></p>

<p>The French camp had a tumultuous 48 hours leading into the World Cup final. A serious bout of illness and minor injuries meant that several players were having a race against time to get fit for, arguably, the biggest game of their careers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Deschamps decided to make two changes to the lineup from the one that played against Croatia. Defender Dayot Upamecaon and midfielder Adrien Rabiot replaced Ibrahima Konate and Youssouf Fofana.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As for Argentina, Scalnoi brought his big match player Ángel Di María in place of Leandro Parades as the only change. With Ousmane Demble not tracking back and Tchoumaeni expected to be loitering high up the pitch, Scaloni's plan was to overload the left side with Mac Allister and Di Maria teaming up.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The ploy worked like a charm as Di Maria, along with Messi remained one of the most influential players on the field for the men in blue-and-white stripes.</p>

<p><strong>A fairytale comes to draw</strong></p>

<p>The WC triumph by Messi and his men is all the more memorable because it comes in the backdrop of the start they had to endure. Argentina were flattened by Saudi Arabia in the opening league game and many believed that it was the end of the road for Messi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“It’s a very hard blow for everyone, we didn’t expect to start like this. Things happen for a reason. We should prepare for what’s coming; we have to win, and it depends on us," said Messi after the game.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, after the Argentine victory, the World Cup has come to its fitting culmination after the grand spectacle began 26 days ago. It may have passed in a blink of an eye but has given fans across the world, memories, to be cherished for a lifetime.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Fairytales are often conjured in this game and fans had none but one&nbsp;they wanted to come true more than anything. Lionel Messi, the trailblazer of the sport lifting the shining golden WC trophy. It came true on Sunday.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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It was Lionel Messi's last dance on the World Cup stage, in perhaps one of the most thrilling finals ever. It was a grand finale to the tournament coinciding with the Argentine star’s last World Cup.

It was Lionel Messi's last dance on the World Cup stage, in perhaps one of the most thrilling finals ever. It was a grand finale to the tournament coinciding with the Argentine star’s last World Cup. And if the start against Saudi Arabia was as anticlimactic as they come, the end was just as romantic, thrilling and visceral as it could have been. Argentina beat France 4-2 on penalties after the match ended 3-3 at the end of extra time at the Lusail International Stadium in front of a majority Argentine crowd that never once let its voice down. A spectacular save from Martinez to deny Aurélien Tchouaméni and a miss from Kingsley Coman allowed Argentina to clinch the WC trophy after going through a plethora of emotions through the course of the match. Two goals from Argentina's talisman Messi and one from Angel Di Maria were not enough for Argentina to get ahead as Mbappe smashed a first World Cup hat-trick to take the game to penalties. A bundle of narratives were weaved prior to the match, none as bigger and often asked as Messi or Mbappe? The answer, though, should have been a no-brainer from the get-go. It was merely the passing of the baton from one generation to another. Both players complete in their own styles and capable to take their team to victory shores fought hard and shone bright but it was Messi that came out on top. Argentina nearly win it France were pinned back within the first 10 minutes as a powerful goal-inbound shot from de Paul in the eighth minute hit a French defender and crashed across the byline. Prior to it, a thumping effort from Alexis Mac Allister hit straight to Lloris was pouched by the Tottenham keeper. Argentina with their buccaneering attitude kept coming back and managed to earn the well-deserved advantage in the 23rd minute via a Messi penalty. The penalty was earned by none other than Angel Di Maria who had Dembele on tenterhooks since the beginning of the game. With France tucked in a compact shape, the winger was forced to do the defensive work but came up short against the Argentine. Lusail witnesses the @Oficial7DiMaria MANIA 💥 The man for the BIG OCCASION with a splendid finish ⭐ Keep watching the #FIFAWorldCup Final ➡ LIVE on #JioCinema & #Sports18 📺📲#ARGFRA #ArgentinaVsFrance #Qatar2022 #FIFAWConJioCinema #FIFAWConSports18 pic.twitter.com/1S9SNBnsjq — JioCinema (@JioCinema) December 18, 2022 × WATCH | Argentina lead through Messi and Di Maria's strike in the final of FIFA WC 2022 After the goal, one would have thought that Deschamps' men would pick up the pace and counter-attack. However, it was Argentina that dictated the play and through sustained pressure managed to double the lead in the 36th minute. A swift move started by Messi with an outside-of-the-boot touch in the right-side half-space to Alvarez who guided it to Mac Allister. The Brighton player charged across the turf and calmly placed the ball at the feet of Di Maria who had no trouble in finding the back of the net from that distance. Lusail witnesses the @Oficial7DiMaria MANIA 💥 The man for the BIG OCCASION with a splendid finish ⭐ Keep watching the #FIFAWorldCup Final ➡ LIVE on #JioCinema & #Sports18 📺📲#ARGFRA #ArgentinaVsFrance #Qatar2022 #FIFAWConJioCinema #FIFAWConSports18 pic.twitter.com/1S9SNBnsjq — JioCinema (@JioCinema) December 18, 2022 × France make a comeback After the two goals, Deschamps was forced to make quick substitutions around the 40-minute mark as Giroud and Dembele were hooked and replaced by Marcus Thuram and last-match goalscorer Randal Kolo Muani. With Argentina firmly in the driving seat, Scaloni opted for defensive changes in the second half as Di Maria was replaced by Acuna. And that turned the game on its head. France jumped to life in the 80th minute when Kolo Muani drove at full tilt in the opposition box and got Otamendi to foul him. Mbappe converted from the spot and nearly 97 seconds later, rifled a half-volley past Martinez to bring France right back into the competition. The game ended level after 90 minutes and the first quarter of extra time went without much development. However, in the second half of the extra time, Messi produced another moment of brilliance to beat Lloris and bring Argentina to the cusp. Just when it looked like France were dead and buried, Mbappe, the 23-year-old youngster brought another special trick from his drawer and managed to stun the full-house Argentine crowd. Scaloni's tactical masterclass The French camp had a tumultuous 48 hours leading into the World Cup final. A serious bout of illness and minor injuries meant that several players were having a race against time to get fit for, arguably, the biggest game of their careers. Deschamps decided to make two changes to the lineup from the one that played against Croatia. Defender Dayot Upamecaon and midfielder Adrien Rabiot replaced Ibrahima Konate and Youssouf Fofana. As for Argentina, Scalnoi brought his big match player Ángel Di María in place of Leandro Parades as the only change. With Ousmane Demble not tracking back and Tchoumaeni expected to be loitering high up the pitch, Scaloni's plan was to overload the left side with Mac Allister and Di Maria teaming up. The ploy worked like a charm as Di Maria, along with Messi remained one of the most influential players on the field for the men in blue-and-white stripes. A fairytale comes to draw The WC triumph by Messi and his men is all the more memorable because it comes in the backdrop of the start they had to endure. Argentina were flattened by Saudi Arabia in the opening league game and many believed that it was the end of the road for Messi. “It’s a very hard blow for everyone, we didn’t expect to start like this. Things happen for a reason. We should prepare for what’s coming; we have to win, and it depends on us," said Messi after the game. However, after the Argentine victory, the World Cup has come to its fitting culmination after the grand spectacle began 26 days ago. It may have passed in a blink of an eye but has given fans across the world, memories, to be cherished for a lifetime. Fairytales are often conjured in this game and fans had none but one they wanted to come true more than anything. Lionel Messi, the trailblazer of the sport lifting the shining golden WC trophy. It came true on Sunday. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

FIFA World Cup 2022: Mesmerising Messi’s Argentina fulfill the dream by beating France on penalties in final

<p>Magical Lionel Messi had an instant impact on the final of the FIFA World Cup here in Qatar after he fired a penalty to the&nbsp;back of the net to grant Argentina an advantage in the 21st minute of the match.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With the goal, Messi went level with legendary Pele in the number of goals (12) scored at the World Cup. The goal meant that Messi had his hands firmly on the golden boot as well with 6 goals.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The penalty was earned by none other than Angel Di Maria who had Dembele on tenterhooks since the beginning of the game. With France tucked in a compact shape, the winger was forced to do the defensive work and came up short against the Argentine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The second goal was created via a beautiful move that started deep in the Argentine territory with Messi's pass providing the finesse. In the end, it was Di&nbsp;Maria again who found himself in the thick of things as he calmly slotted the ball past Lloris after receiving a gently rolled ball from MacAllister.&nbsp;</p>

<p>La Albiceleste were off the blocks swiftly and attacked the French box within the first 10 minutes. Meanwhile, the defending champions were happy to allow Argentina have the ball.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">BIG BIG step towards the 🏆 dream 🙌🏻<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Messi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Messi</a> scores his 6️⃣th goal of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Qatar2022?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Qatar2022</a> &amp; no better time than this 🔥<br />
<br />
Can the <a href="https://twitter.com/FrenchTeam?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FrenchTeam</a> strike back? Find out LIVE on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JioCinema?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JioCinema</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Sports18?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Sports18</a> 📺📲<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ARGFRA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ARGFRA</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FIFAWorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FIFAWorldCup</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FIFAWConJioCinema?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FIFAWConJioCinema</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FIFAWConSports18?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FIFAWConSports18</a> <a href="https://t.co/Io6fyc2uRm">pic.twitter.com/Io6fyc2uRm</a></p>
— JioCinema (@JioCinema) <a href="https://twitter.com/JioCinema/status/1604506440210984962?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Di Maria goal to double the lead for Argentina 🔥🔥<br />
<a href="https://t.co/v52gpVdwW0">pic.twitter.com/v52gpVdwW0</a></p>
— Adriana 🇫🇷🇪🇸🇬🇷🇩🇴 (@Adrianamessi30) <a href="https://twitter.com/Adrianamessi30/status/1604501345750245378?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Argentina had the first crack at the French goalpost when previous match hero Julian Alvarez placed one for MacAllister who let it fly from outside the box, straight into the cupping hands of Lloris.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Playing XIs:</strong></p>

<p>The French camp had a tumultuous 48 hours leading into the World Cup final. A serious bout of illness and minor injuries meant that several players were having a race against time to get fit for, arguably, the biggest game of their careers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Deschamps decided to make two changes to the lineup from the one that played against Croatia. Defender Dayot Upamecaon and midfielder Adrien Rabiot replaced Ibrahima Konate and Youssouf Fofana.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As for Argentina, Scalnoi brought his big match player Ángel Di María in place of Leandro Parades as the only change. With Ousmane Dembele not tracking back and Tchoumaeni expected to be loitering high up the pitch, Scaloni's plan was to overload the left side with Kounde teaming up with Di Maria.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


Magical Lionel Messi had an instant impact on the final of the FIFA World Cup here in Qatar after he fired a penalty to the back of the net to grant Argentina an advantage in the 21st minute of the match.

Magical Lionel Messi had an instant impact on the final of the FIFA World Cup here in Qatar after he fired a penalty to the back of the net to grant Argentina an advantage in the 21st minute of the match. With the goal, Messi went level with legendary Pele in the number of goals (12) scored at the World Cup. The goal meant that Messi had his hands firmly on the golden boot as well with 6 goals. The penalty was earned by none other than Angel Di Maria who had Dembele on tenterhooks since the beginning of the game. With France tucked in a compact shape, the winger was forced to do the defensive work and came up short against the Argentine. The second goal was created via a beautiful move that started deep in the Argentine territory with Messi's pass providing the finesse. In the end, it was Di Maria again who found himself in the thick of things as he calmly slotted the ball past Lloris after receiving a gently rolled ball from MacAllister. La Albiceleste were off the blocks swiftly and attacked the French box within the first 10 minutes. Meanwhile, the defending champions were happy to allow Argentina have the ball. BIG BIG step towards the 🏆 dream 🙌🏻#Messi scores his 6️⃣th goal of #Qatar2022 & no better time than this 🔥 Can the @FrenchTeam strike back? Find out LIVE on #JioCinema & #Sports18 📺📲#ARGFRA #FIFAWorldCup #FIFAWConJioCinema #FIFAWConSports18 pic.twitter.com/Io6fyc2uRm — JioCinema (@JioCinema) December 18, 2022 × Di Maria goal to double the lead for Argentina 🔥🔥 pic.twitter.com/v52gpVdwW0 — Adriana 🇫🇷🇪🇸🇬🇷🇩🇴 (@Adrianamessi30) December 18, 2022 × Argentina had the first crack at the French goalpost when previous match hero Julian Alvarez placed one for MacAllister who let it fly from outside the box, straight into the cupping hands of Lloris. Playing XIs: The French camp had a tumultuous 48 hours leading into the World Cup final. A serious bout of illness and minor injuries meant that several players were having a race against time to get fit for, arguably, the biggest game of their careers. Deschamps decided to make two changes to the lineup from the one that played against Croatia. Defender Dayot Upamecaon and midfielder Adrien Rabiot replaced Ibrahima Konate and Youssouf Fofana. As for Argentina, Scalnoi brought his big match player Ángel Di María in place of Leandro Parades as the only change. With Ousmane Dembele not tracking back and Tchoumaeni expected to be loitering high up the pitch, Scaloni's plan was to overload the left side with Kounde teaming up with Di Maria. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

WATCH | Argentina lead through Messi and Di Maria's strike in the final of FIFA WC 2022

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidgau1wL9tgBrQ" /><meta charset="utf-8" />Former Paris Saint-Germain manager Mauricio Pochettino believes that the clamour surrounding Argentine superstar Lionel Messi's defensive work is silly and that he needs others to do the running for him.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Honestly, I think the debate about Messi's defensive work is stale, almost silly,"&nbsp;Pochettino was quoted as saying by The Athletic.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 50-year-old former Tottenham Hotspur manager cited the example of Maradona and Pele and said:&nbsp;"You can't pretend that Maradona or Pele - along with Messi, the most important players in football - were focused on trying to win the ball back. He can't participate in that. He just needs others to run for him."</p>

<p>Ever since the two teams for the final were decided, questions were asked if Argentina's defensive line will be able to keep France's rapid wide players like Mbappe and Dembele quiet.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-world-cup-final-argentina-vs-france-live-updates-lusail-stadium-ready-for-the-final-showdown-544211"><strong>Read more:&nbsp;FIFA World Cup final Argentina vs France LIVE updates: Nora Fatehi to perform at the Closing ceremony</strong></a></p>

<p>In the front two where Messi and Alvarez play in manager Lionel Scaloni's system, France are expected to have Kylian Mbappe with fullback Theo Hernandez, bombing forward on the left flank.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, with Messi not tracking back akin to modern players born and brought up in high-pressing systems, it is his teammates like Rodrigo de Paul that have to pick up the slack and ensure that Argentina are not hurt.</p>

<p>This has been the formula for Argentina's success this tournament. Messi has been allowed to occupy the half spaces across the pitch.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pep-shouldve-been-fired-7-8-times-says-pochettino-when-asked-about-his-psg-sacking-539790" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: 'Pep should've been fired 7-8 times', says Pochettino when asked about his PSG sacking</strong></a></p>

<p>It was perhaps one of the reasons why at the young age of 35 years, Messi was able to beat Gvardiol and manage to net himself a beautiful assist during the semifinal clash against Croatia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"That's the most important thing about this Argentina team and the reason why they are in the final. It's because the players understand their roles perfectly. When you have Messi on your team, you must run for him," said Pochettino.&nbsp;</p>

<p>If Messi begins to track back and embroil himself in dirty, defensive work, Argentina's offensive output suffers as he is the lynchpin, pulling string from the middle of the park by dropping deep.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Argentina and France will square up against each other, later in the evening at the Lusail Stadium. While Les Bleus will be attempting to become the first team since Brazil in 1962 to retain the World Cup trophy, Messi's men&nbsp; will be seeking to break a 36-year-old WC trophy drought.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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Former Paris Saint-Germain manager Mauricio Pochettino believes that the clamour surrounding Argentine superstar Lionel Messi's defensive work is silly and that he needs others to do the running for him.

Former Paris Saint-Germain manager Mauricio Pochettino believes that the clamour surrounding Argentine superstar Lionel Messi's defensive work is silly and that he needs others to do the running for him. "Honestly, I think the debate about Messi's defensive work is stale, almost silly," Pochettino was quoted as saying by The Athletic. The 50-year-old former Tottenham Hotspur manager cited the example of Maradona and Pele and said: "You can't pretend that Maradona or Pele - along with Messi, the most important players in football - were focused on trying to win the ball back. He can't participate in that. He just needs others to run for him." Ever since the two teams for the final were decided, questions were asked if Argentina's defensive line will be able to keep France's rapid wide players like Mbappe and Dembele quiet. Read more: FIFA World Cup final Argentina vs France LIVE updates: Nora Fatehi to perform at the Closing ceremony In the front two where Messi and Alvarez play in manager Lionel Scaloni's system, France are expected to have Kylian Mbappe with fullback Theo Hernandez, bombing forward on the left flank. However, with Messi not tracking back akin to modern players born and brought up in high-pressing systems, it is his teammates like Rodrigo de Paul that have to pick up the slack and ensure that Argentina are not hurt. This has been the formula for Argentina's success this tournament. Messi has been allowed to occupy the half spaces across the pitch. Read more: 'Pep should've been fired 7-8 times', says Pochettino when asked about his PSG sacking It was perhaps one of the reasons why at the young age of 35 years, Messi was able to beat Gvardiol and manage to net himself a beautiful assist during the semifinal clash against Croatia. "That's the most important thing about this Argentina team and the reason why they are in the final. It's because the players understand their roles perfectly. When you have Messi on your team, you must run for him," said Pochettino. If Messi begins to track back and embroil himself in dirty, defensive work, Argentina's offensive output suffers as he is the lynchpin, pulling string from the middle of the park by dropping deep. Argentina and France will square up against each other, later in the evening at the Lusail Stadium. While Les Bleus will be attempting to become the first team since Brazil in 1962 to retain the World Cup trophy, Messi's men will be seeking to break a 36-year-old WC trophy drought. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'He needs others to run for him': Mauricio Pochettino on Lionel Messi ahead of World Cup final

<p><strong>FIFA World Cup Final 2022:</strong>The ongoing World Cup in Qatar hasn't been short on controversies. Referees and Video Assistant Referee (VAR) have been at the receiving end of criticism from players and fans alike. However, amid the gloom, there is one heartening story of a referee that is set to register his name in the history books.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Szymon Marciniak will be the first referee in the final between France and Argentina at the Lusail Stadium on Today (Sunday December 18). The 41-old-year referee, hailing from Poland will become the first Polish person to officiate a final of the FIFA World Cup.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Marciniak finding himself at the centre of the biggest match of the sport is something that he himself could not have imagined a year ago. The Polish referee was forced to step away from officiating duties after being diagnosed with&nbsp;Tachycardia -- a heart condition where the heart rate exceeds the normal resting rate.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I had a very difficult time for the last year-and-a-half. I had Tachycardia - it's a heart illness. In the beginning, it was very difficult,"&nbsp;Marciniak was quoted as saying by Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I missed the UEFA European Championship, it was a terrible feeling. Now, life gives back to me and I cannot even stop smiling because it's a great feeling."</p>

<p>Marciniak started his career in 2009 in Poland's top-flight tournament. Four years later, he joined FIFA's official list of referees. He was also involved in the 2018 World Cup held in Russia and is famously known for handing German player Jerome Boateng a red card.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Marciniak will be joined by assistants Pawel Sokolnicki and Tomasz Listkiewicz who also happen to be Polish. As for VAR,&nbsp;Tomasz Kwiatkowski will man the consoles with Ismail Elfath as the fourth official.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What is the controversy around referees?</strong></h2>

<p>Referees at the Qatar World Cup 2022 have had to endure a tough time ever since the knockout phase began. It all started during the highly physical quarterfinal match between Netherlands and Argentina where Lionel Messi and goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez slammed referees.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I don’t want to speak about referees because after they will sanction you. But people saw what happened. I think FIFA must take care of this. It cannot put a referee like that for a match of such magnitude, of such importance. The referee cannot fail to be up to the task," said Messi in a post-match interview.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/messi-martinez-slam-referee-and-dutch-coach-after-tense-quarterfinal-win-541778"><strong>Read more:&nbsp;Messi, Martinez slam referee and Dutch coach after tense quarterfinal win</strong></a></p>

<p>Notably, similar criticism was levelled by Portuguese players following their 1-0 defeat against Morocco. Portugal's midfield leader Bruno Fernandes said an 'Argentine' referee should not have been allowed to officiate their match.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I don't know if they're going to give the cup to Argentina. I don't care, I'm going to say what I think, and screw them. It's very strange that a referee from a team that's still in the cup officiates us. They've clearly tilted the field against us," said Fernandes.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>


FIFA World Cup Final 2022:The ongoing World Cup in Qatar hasn't been short on controversies. Referees and Video Assistant Referee (VAR) have been at the receiving end of criticism from players and fans alike.

FIFA World Cup Final 2022:The ongoing World Cup in Qatar hasn't been short on controversies. Referees and Video Assistant Referee (VAR) have been at the receiving end of criticism from players and fans alike. However, amid the gloom, there is one heartening story of a referee that is set to register his name in the history books. Szymon Marciniak will be the first referee in the final between France and Argentina at the Lusail Stadium on Today (Sunday December 18). The 41-old-year referee, hailing from Poland will become the first Polish person to officiate a final of the FIFA World Cup. Marciniak finding himself at the centre of the biggest match of the sport is something that he himself could not have imagined a year ago. The Polish referee was forced to step away from officiating duties after being diagnosed with Tachycardia -- a heart condition where the heart rate exceeds the normal resting rate. "I had a very difficult time for the last year-and-a-half. I had Tachycardia - it's a heart illness. In the beginning, it was very difficult," Marciniak was quoted as saying by Reuters. "I missed the UEFA European Championship, it was a terrible feeling. Now, life gives back to me and I cannot even stop smiling because it's a great feeling." Marciniak started his career in 2009 in Poland's top-flight tournament. Four years later, he joined FIFA's official list of referees. He was also involved in the 2018 World Cup held in Russia and is famously known for handing German player Jerome Boateng a red card. Marciniak will be joined by assistants Pawel Sokolnicki and Tomasz Listkiewicz who also happen to be Polish. As for VAR, Tomasz Kwiatkowski will man the consoles with Ismail Elfath as the fourth official. What is the controversy around referees? Referees at the Qatar World Cup 2022 have had to endure a tough time ever since the knockout phase began. It all started during the highly physical quarterfinal match between Netherlands and Argentina where Lionel Messi and goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez slammed referees. "I don’t want to speak about referees because after they will sanction you. But people saw what happened. I think FIFA must take care of this. It cannot put a referee like that for a match of such magnitude, of such importance. The referee cannot fail to be up to the task," said Messi in a post-match interview. Read more: Messi, Martinez slam referee and Dutch coach after tense quarterfinal win Notably, similar criticism was levelled by Portuguese players following their 1-0 defeat against Morocco. Portugal's midfield leader Bruno Fernandes said an 'Argentine' referee should not have been allowed to officiate their match. "I don't know if they're going to give the cup to Argentina. I don't care, I'm going to say what I think, and screw them. It's very strange that a referee from a team that's still in the cup officiates us. They've clearly tilted the field against us," said Fernandes. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

FIFA World Cup Final 2022: Are you watching Argentina vs France final today? Find out who is Szymon Marciniak

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<p>Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez has criticised France superstar Kylian Mbappe over his previous statements about the quality of football in South America.</p>

<p>“He doesn’t know enough about football. He never played in South America. When you don’t have this experience, it may be better not to talk about it. But it doesn’t matter. We are a great team, recognised as such,” Martinez told the media on the eve of the final.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Argentine goalkeeper was referring to statements made by Mbappe a few months ago where he said European nations are better prepared for World Cup compared to their South American counterparts.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Argentina haven't played games of great quality to reach the World Cup. In South America football isn't as advanced as Europe. That's why if you look at the last World Cups it's always the Europeans that win," Mbappe had said at the time.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-world-cup-2022-final-is-lionel-messi-fit-to-play-against-france-get-the-latest-update-544175"><strong>Read more:&nbsp;FIFA World Cup 2022 Final: Is Lionel Messi fit to play against France? Get the latest update</strong></a></p>

<p>Mbappe was slammed even then for his statement with players like Lionel Messi, Lautaro&nbsp;Martinez and&nbsp;former Brazil coach Tite gently reminding the Frenchman to not make such unfair comparisons when conditions and oppositions were starkly different.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Many times we talked about that in Spain. When we returned from a qualifier, we told them: You don’t know how difficult it would be for you to qualify for the World Cup if you had to go there, at altitude, in the heat, in Venezuela," Messi said in an interview.</p>

<p>Similarly, Inter Milan striker Martinez called Mbappe's statement unfair and added,&nbsp;"We are happy with how it's working and what we're doing on the field. I saw what [Mbappe] said, but Argentina and Brazil have players of great quality and talent. Brazil, just like us, has most of its players in Europe. I thought it was an unfair comment."</p>

<p>Argentina and France will square up against each other in the final of the FIFA World Cup later in the evening at the Lusail Stadium. While Les Bleus will be attempting to become the first team since Brazil in 1962 to retain the World Cup trophy, Argentina will be seeking to break a 36-year-old trophy drought.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez has criticised France superstar Kylian Mbappe over his previous statements about the quality of football in South America.

Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez has criticised France superstar Kylian Mbappe over his previous statements about the quality of football in South America. “He doesn’t know enough about football. He never played in South America. When you don’t have this experience, it may be better not to talk about it. But it doesn’t matter. We are a great team, recognised as such,” Martinez told the media on the eve of the final. The Argentine goalkeeper was referring to statements made by Mbappe a few months ago where he said European nations are better prepared for World Cup compared to their South American counterparts. "Argentina haven't played games of great quality to reach the World Cup. In South America football isn't as advanced as Europe. That's why if you look at the last World Cups it's always the Europeans that win," Mbappe had said at the time. Read more: FIFA World Cup 2022 Final: Is Lionel Messi fit to play against France? Get the latest update Mbappe was slammed even then for his statement with players like Lionel Messi, Lautaro Martinez and former Brazil coach Tite gently reminding the Frenchman to not make such unfair comparisons when conditions and oppositions were starkly different. "Many times we talked about that in Spain. When we returned from a qualifier, we told them: You don’t know how difficult it would be for you to qualify for the World Cup if you had to go there, at altitude, in the heat, in Venezuela," Messi said in an interview. Similarly, Inter Milan striker Martinez called Mbappe's statement unfair and added, "We are happy with how it's working and what we're doing on the field. I saw what [Mbappe] said, but Argentina and Brazil have players of great quality and talent. Brazil, just like us, has most of its players in Europe. I thought it was an unfair comment." Argentina and France will square up against each other in the final of the FIFA World Cup later in the evening at the Lusail Stadium. While Les Bleus will be attempting to become the first team since Brazil in 1962 to retain the World Cup trophy, Argentina will be seeking to break a 36-year-old trophy drought. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'He doesn't know enough about football': Emiliano Martinez about Kylian Mbappe ahead of the final

<p>The stage is set for the biggest football game of the year and the mind games have already started. France goalkeeper and captain Hugo Lloris during a presser said the final is not only about Argentine superstar Lionel Messi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The event is too important to focus on one player. It's a final between two great nations.When you face this kind of player (Messi), you have to pay attention to him, but this game is not just about him," said Lloris.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Tottenham Hotspur goalkeeper added that his team was still preparing for Sunday's summit clash by studying the opposition.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Tomorrow there will be a game plan to respect. We are still studying this team and preparing for this big game. There are always things we are not prepared for."</p>

<p>"To face that we need a perfect mindset, to be ready to go above and beyond. We know that we are capable of playing with possession and on the counter-attack. We have a lot of fast players offensively. The strength of our team is that we can adapt to any type of scenario."</p>

<p>France skipped their way past a resolute Moroccan side in the semifinals to set up the summit clash. Meanwhile, the La Albiceleste rode on Messi's brilliance to brush aside 2018 finalists Croatia.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-world-cup-2022-marvellous-messi-fires-argentina-to-wc-final-as-alvarez-grabs-two-542824"><strong>Read more:&nbsp;FIFA World Cup 2022: Marvellous Messi fires Argentina to WC final as Alvarez grabs two</strong></a></p>

<p>After the shocking defeat against Saudi Arabia, Argentina's World Cup hopes hanged by a thread. However, since then, Messi has single-handedly guided his team. one step away from the ultimate prize.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While Lloris may be playing down Messi's threat, coach Didier Deschamps will be well aware that giving the 35-year-old any space in the middle of the&nbsp;park could be suicidal. Often such high-stakes matches are decided by one moment of brilliance that a player of the class of Messi is more than capable of conjuring. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Les Bleus will seek to become the first team since Brazil in 1962 to retain the World Cup trophy. Meanwhile, Messi's men will look to emulate the glory of Maradona's 1986 team.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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The stage is set for the biggest football game of the year and the mind games have already started. France goalkeeper and captain Hugo Lloris during a presser said the final is not only about Argentine superstar Lionel Messi.

The stage is set for the biggest football game of the year and the mind games have already started. France goalkeeper and captain Hugo Lloris during a presser said the final is not only about Argentine superstar Lionel Messi. "The event is too important to focus on one player. It's a final between two great nations.When you face this kind of player (Messi), you have to pay attention to him, but this game is not just about him," said Lloris. The Tottenham Hotspur goalkeeper added that his team was still preparing for Sunday's summit clash by studying the opposition. "Tomorrow there will be a game plan to respect. We are still studying this team and preparing for this big game. There are always things we are not prepared for." "To face that we need a perfect mindset, to be ready to go above and beyond. We know that we are capable of playing with possession and on the counter-attack. We have a lot of fast players offensively. The strength of our team is that we can adapt to any type of scenario." France skipped their way past a resolute Moroccan side in the semifinals to set up the summit clash. Meanwhile, the La Albiceleste rode on Messi's brilliance to brush aside 2018 finalists Croatia. Read more: FIFA World Cup 2022: Marvellous Messi fires Argentina to WC final as Alvarez grabs two After the shocking defeat against Saudi Arabia, Argentina's World Cup hopes hanged by a thread. However, since then, Messi has single-handedly guided his team. one step away from the ultimate prize. While Lloris may be playing down Messi's threat, coach Didier Deschamps will be well aware that giving the 35-year-old any space in the middle of the park could be suicidal. Often such high-stakes matches are decided by one moment of brilliance that a player of the class of Messi is more than capable of conjuring. Les Bleus will seek to become the first team since Brazil in 1962 to retain the World Cup trophy. Meanwhile, Messi's men will look to emulate the glory of Maradona's 1986 team. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

FIFA World Cup 2022: 'Game is not just about him': Hugo Lloris on Messi threat in the final

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<p>Croatian centre-back Josko Gvardiol has said he was glad to have played against Argentina superstar Lionel Messi in the World Cup semifinal and that he will tell his kids about it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It was a nice experience even though I played against him in the club last season. He is a completely different type of player in the club and in the national team," said the defender.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I am glad that I played against him even though we lost. It's a great experience, and one day I'll tell my kids that I played against the best player in history. I guess we will beat him next time."</p>

<p>Gvardiol has been of the brightest stars of the FIFA World Cup 2022. The 20-year-old looked far more mature than his age and played like a man possessed throughout Croatia's run in the tournament. His performances&nbsp;have&nbsp;attracted attention of some of the biggest clubs in the world which will be looking to avail his services soon.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Despite having a stellar tournament, Gvardiol came second-best against Lionel Messi in the semi-final encounter, as have many prized defenders of the past. While many thought a youngster with a pedigree of Gvardiol will be able to keep Messi silent, the Argentine pulled one of the moments of the World Cup against him.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Messi torpedoed&nbsp;through the heart of Croatian midfield and engaged with Gvardiol outside the penalty box. The defender did not do a whole lot by staying on his feet and pushing Messi to the outside.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/fifa-world-cup-2022-two-time-world-champions-argentina-beat-croatia-3-0-to-enter-the-final-542852"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;FIFA World Cup 2022: Two-time world champions Argentina beat Croatia 3-0 to enter the final</strong></a></p>

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<p>However, the seven-times Ballon d'Or winner managed to beat Gvardiol inside the box and place a laser-sharp pass at the feet of Julian Alvarez who slotted the ball to the back of the net.&nbsp;</p>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Classic Messi Move 🔥<br />
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The little 🧙‍♂️ tip-toes past the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Croatia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Croatia</a> defence to set up an easy finish for Julian Alvarez 👏<br />
<br />
Watch <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ARGCRO?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ARGCRO</a> ➡ LIVE on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JioCinema?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JioCinema</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Sports18?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Sports18</a> 📲📺<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Qatar2022?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Qatar2022</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FIFAWorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FIFAWorldCup</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FIFAWConJioCinema?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FIFAWConJioCinema</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FIFAWConSports18?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FIFAWConSports18</a> <a href="https://t.co/kMWpzRUQdB">pic.twitter.com/kMWpzRUQdB</a></p>
— JioCinema (@JioCinema) <a href="https://twitter.com/JioCinema/status/1602767241199509504?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 13, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Messi scored one and assisted one while playing a major part in another&nbsp;as Argentina steamrolled the Croatian challenge 3-0 to give their talisman a chance at achieving greatness for posterity.</p>

<p>Croatia dominated the game early one with their compact shape. It was only after Messi&nbsp;began dragging Gvardiol, arguably the best defender of the tournament from his left-centre-back position and into the midfield, that the game changed.</p>

<p>This allowed Argentina to knock the ball behind the Croatian defence with Julian Alvarez galloping forward, inviting goalkeeper Livakovic to foul him and earn a penalty.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-world-cup-2022-marvellous-messi-fires-argentina-to-wc-final-as-alvarez-grabs-two-542824" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: FIFA World Cup 2022: Marvellous Messi fires Argentina to WC final as Alvarez grabs two</strong></a></p>

<p>Before heading home, Gvardiol has one last challenge left as his team plays the third-place playoff against Morocco on Saturday. The 2018 runners-up will look to win the playoff and end the campaign on a high.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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Croatian centre-back Josko Gvardiol has said he was glad to have played against Argentina superstar Lionel Messi in the World Cup semifinal and that he will tell his kids about it.

Croatian centre-back Josko Gvardiol has said he was glad to have played against Argentina superstar Lionel Messi in the World Cup semifinal and that he will tell his kids about it. "It was a nice experience even though I played against him in the club last season. He is a completely different type of player in the club and in the national team," said the defender. "I am glad that I played against him even though we lost. It's a great experience, and one day I'll tell my kids that I played against the best player in history. I guess we will beat him next time." Gvardiol has been of the brightest stars of the FIFA World Cup 2022. The 20-year-old looked far more mature than his age and played like a man possessed throughout Croatia's run in the tournament. His performances have attracted attention of some of the biggest clubs in the world which will be looking to avail his services soon. Despite having a stellar tournament, Gvardiol came second-best against Lionel Messi in the semi-final encounter, as have many prized defenders of the past. While many thought a youngster with a pedigree of Gvardiol will be able to keep Messi silent, the Argentine pulled one of the moments of the World Cup against him. Messi torpedoed through the heart of Croatian midfield and engaged with Gvardiol outside the penalty box. The defender did not do a whole lot by staying on his feet and pushing Messi to the outside. WATCH | FIFA World Cup 2022: Two-time world champions Argentina beat Croatia 3-0 to enter the final × However, the seven-times Ballon d'Or winner managed to beat Gvardiol inside the box and place a laser-sharp pass at the feet of Julian Alvarez who slotted the ball to the back of the net. Classic Messi Move 🔥 The little 🧙‍♂️ tip-toes past the #Croatia defence to set up an easy finish for Julian Alvarez 👏 Watch #ARGCRO ➡ LIVE on #JioCinema & #Sports18 📲📺#Qatar2022 #FIFAWorldCup #FIFAWConJioCinema #FIFAWConSports18 pic.twitter.com/kMWpzRUQdB — JioCinema (@JioCinema) December 13, 2022 × Messi scored one and assisted one while playing a major part in another as Argentina steamrolled the Croatian challenge 3-0 to give their talisman a chance at achieving greatness for posterity. Croatia dominated the game early one with their compact shape. It was only after Messi began dragging Gvardiol, arguably the best defender of the tournament from his left-centre-back position and into the midfield, that the game changed. This allowed Argentina to knock the ball behind the Croatian defence with Julian Alvarez galloping forward, inviting goalkeeper Livakovic to foul him and earn a penalty. Read more: FIFA World Cup 2022: Marvellous Messi fires Argentina to WC final as Alvarez grabs two Before heading home, Gvardiol has one last challenge left as his team plays the third-place playoff against Morocco on Saturday. The 2018 runners-up will look to win the playoff and end the campaign on a high. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'I'll tell my kids...': Croatian defender Josko Gvardiol on facing Messi at the World Cup

In pics | Messi's 2022 World Cup journey so far as he advances to another final

<p>Croatia exited the World Cup following a 3-0 defeat to Argentina on Tuesday at the Lusail&nbsp;Stadium. Croatian captain and midfielder Luka Modric, however, was not happy with the match referee who he labelled a 'disaster'.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Argentina was a fair winner of the match, they were better, they deserved to win, but these things have to be mentioned, I generally don't do them, but today they have to be done," said Modric in a post-match interview.</p>

<p>Modric, who often shies away from controversies and keeps a low profile despite a stellar career brimming with trophies was visibly frustrated due to the calls made by the referee.&nbsp;</p>

<p>''We had a good time on the pitch until the penalty, which for me wasn't there, because he (Julian Alvarez) shoots and hits our goalkeeper. Usually, I don't like to talk about referees, but this is one of the worst. I don't have a good memory of [Orsato], he's a disaster. For me it wasn't a penalty.''</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-world-cup-2022-marvellous-messi-fires-argentina-to-wc-final-as-alvarez-grabs-two-542824"><strong>Read more:&nbsp;FIFA World Cup 2022: Marvellous Messi fires Argentina to WC final as Alvarez grabs two</strong></a></p>

<p>The penalty was indeed the turning point of the match as it came against the run of play. Till the 30th minute, Croatia were bossing the play, despite not having a lot to show for it in the final third.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A mere five minutes after the goal, Argentina broke through the water-tight Croatian defence once again. Alvarez was served by Messi deep from the Argentine side of the pitch from where the Manchester City player made a good 40-50 yard dash before slotting the ball past goalkeeper Livakovic.&nbsp;</p>

<p>''Despite this, I don't want to detract from Argentina. The penalty killed us. We have to recover for third place and win that match," added Modric.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/fifa-world-cup-2022-two-time-world-champions-argentina-beat-croatia-3-0-to-enter-the-final-542852"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;FIFA World Cup 2022: Two-time world champions Argentina beat Croatia 3-0 to enter the final</strong></a></p>

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<p>Modric and his teammates were hoping to reach the final and repeat the feat of 2018 World Cup when they came agonisingly close to the World Cup trophy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While Argentine no. 10 Messi was weaving his magic on the field, his compatriot Modric was taken off the pitch in the 81st minute to a rousing reception from the Croatian record, in what was perhaps his second-last game on the world stage.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Croatia will be involved in a third-place playoff on Saturday against the loser of France vs Morocco match.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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Croatia exited the World Cup following a 3-0 defeat to Argentina on Tuesday at the Lusail Stadium. Croatian captain and midfielder Luka Modric, however, was not happy with the match referee who he labelled a 'disaster'.

Croatia exited the World Cup following a 3-0 defeat to Argentina on Tuesday at the Lusail Stadium. Croatian captain and midfielder Luka Modric, however, was not happy with the match referee who he labelled a 'disaster'. "Argentina was a fair winner of the match, they were better, they deserved to win, but these things have to be mentioned, I generally don't do them, but today they have to be done," said Modric in a post-match interview. Modric, who often shies away from controversies and keeps a low profile despite a stellar career brimming with trophies was visibly frustrated due to the calls made by the referee. ''We had a good time on the pitch until the penalty, which for me wasn't there, because he (Julian Alvarez) shoots and hits our goalkeeper. Usually, I don't like to talk about referees, but this is one of the worst. I don't have a good memory of [Orsato], he's a disaster. For me it wasn't a penalty.'' Read more: FIFA World Cup 2022: Marvellous Messi fires Argentina to WC final as Alvarez grabs two The penalty was indeed the turning point of the match as it came against the run of play. Till the 30th minute, Croatia were bossing the play, despite not having a lot to show for it in the final third. A mere five minutes after the goal, Argentina broke through the water-tight Croatian defence once again. Alvarez was served by Messi deep from the Argentine side of the pitch from where the Manchester City player made a good 40-50 yard dash before slotting the ball past goalkeeper Livakovic. ''Despite this, I don't want to detract from Argentina. The penalty killed us. We have to recover for third place and win that match," added Modric. WATCH | FIFA World Cup 2022: Two-time world champions Argentina beat Croatia 3-0 to enter the final × Modric and his teammates were hoping to reach the final and repeat the feat of 2018 World Cup when they came agonisingly close to the World Cup trophy. While Argentine no. 10 Messi was weaving his magic on the field, his compatriot Modric was taken off the pitch in the 81st minute to a rousing reception from the Croatian record, in what was perhaps his second-last game on the world stage. Croatia will be involved in a third-place playoff on Saturday against the loser of France vs Morocco match. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

FIFA World Cup 2022: 'He's a disaster...': Luka Modric slams Argentina vs Croatia match referee

<p>It was a match fitting for the occasion. Argentina and Croatia, the two powerhouses of modern football went toe-to-toe against each other in the first semifinal of the FIFA World Cup in front of a capacity crowd at the Lusail Stadium in Qatar. However, it was one man and phenomenon that stole the show and it was none other than Lionel Messi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Messi scored one and assisted two goals as Argentina steamrolled the Croatian challenge 3-0 to give their talisman a chance at achieving greatness for posterity.</p>

<p>While the scoreline may flatter, the start of the game was tentative for the South American side.&nbsp;Argentina went into the game by making two changes from their last match against the Netherlands. Nicolas Tagliafico and Leandro Parades came into the squad replacing suspended Marcos Acuna and Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Croatia went into the game with the same team that beat Brazil on penalties. The midfield of Kovacic-Modric-Brozovic that ran through the Brazilian midfield of Casemiro and Paqueta was given a stiff challenge by Scaloni who made the tactical changes.</p>

<p>Argentina played a midfield four with MacAllister, Enzo, Paredes and de Paul attempting to stop the tank of a Croatian midfield. During the first half-an-hour of the game, Croatia looked compact and the midfield three managed to gobble up most of the Argentine transitions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Against the run of time, the first save of the match came in 25th minute when Livakovic had to be on alert from a sweet strike from Enzo Fernandez from outside the penalty box.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Messi starts to weave his magic wand</strong></p>

<p>Just when it looked like Croatia were dominating the ball, Messi rose to the challenge and started making things happen. The little master began dragging Gvardiol, arguably the best defender of the tournament from his left-centre-back position and into the midfield.</p>

<p>This allowed Argentina to knock the ball behind the Croatian defence with Julian Alvarez galloping forward, inviting goalkeeper Livakovic to foul him and earn a penalty.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, prior to the penalty, Modric had pulled off a nutmeg deep in Croatian territory to start a move that flowed beautifully up until it didn't. Messi took the penalty and promptly dispatched the ball to the back of the net.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It was Messi's 11th goal in 25 World Cup games and the fifth of this tournament which brought him level with&nbsp;Kylian Mbappe in the golden boot race.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Alvarez's fleet-footed, solo goal</strong></p>

<p>A mere five minutes after the goal, Argentina broke through the water-tight Croatian defence once again. &nbsp;Alvarez was served by Messi deep from the Argentine side of the pitch from where&nbsp;the Manchester City player made a good 40-50 yard dash with right-back Nahuel Molina providing the decoy run.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While most players would have looked for options to the right and left, Alvarez, brimming with confidence went toe-to-toe with the Croatian defenders and courtesy of some luck and two ricochets, managed to finesse the ball past goalkeeper Livakovic.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-julian-alvarezs-stunning-solo-goal-in-the-fifa-2022-world-cup-semifinal-542820"><strong>WATCH | Julian Alvarez's stunning solo goal in the FIFA 2022 World Cup semifinal</strong></a></p>

<p>Trailing at half-time, Croatian coach&nbsp;Zlatko Dalić was forced to make two substitutes as Nikola Vlasic and Mislav Orisic came on for Sosa and Pasalic. Few minutes into the second half, Croatia were dealt another blow as their midfield maestro Brozovic felt something and was forced to make way for previous match hero Bruno Petkovic.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With a two-goal lead to defend and Croatia bombing men forward, Argentine coach Scaloni went for defensive changes as he brought on Martinez for Fernandes. Till the hour mark, Croatia did not have a single shot on target, suggesting Argentina had done their part of the bargain decently well.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Box-office Messi on display</strong></p>

<p>Perhaps, the most Messi-esque moment came in the 69th minute when Messi single-handedly beat Gvardiol in the Croatian penalty box to set up Alvarez for his second goal.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Classic Messi Move 🔥<br />
<br />
The little 🧙‍♂️ tip-toes past the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Croatia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Croatia</a> defence to set up an easy finish for Julian Alvarez 👏<br />
<br />
Watch <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ARGCRO?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ARGCRO</a> ➡ LIVE on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JioCinema?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JioCinema</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Sports18?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Sports18</a> 📲📺<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Qatar2022?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Qatar2022</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FIFAWorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FIFAWorldCup</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FIFAWConJioCinema?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FIFAWConJioCinema</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FIFAWConSports18?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FIFAWConSports18</a> <a href="https://t.co/kMWpzRUQdB">pic.twitter.com/kMWpzRUQdB</a></p>
— JioCinema (@JioCinema) <a href="https://twitter.com/JioCinema/status/1602767241199509504?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 13, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>The 2018 finalists kept knocking but with no finesse in the final third, the opening goal never arrived. While Argentine no. 10 Messi was weaving his magic on the field, his compatriot Luka Modric was taken off the pitch in the 81st minute to a rousing reception from the Croatian record, in what was perhaps his last game on the world stage.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Messi's men will now look to earn Argentina their third World Cup trophy as they take on the winners of Morocco vs France game on Sunday. This will be Argentina's sixth appearance in the World Cup finals.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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It was a match fitting for the occasion. Argentina and Croatia, the two powerhouses of modern football went toe-to-toe against each other in the first semifinal of the FIFA World Cup in front of a capacity crowd at the Lusail Stadium in Qatar.

It was a match fitting for the occasion. Argentina and Croatia, the two powerhouses of modern football went toe-to-toe against each other in the first semifinal of the FIFA World Cup in front of a capacity crowd at the Lusail Stadium in Qatar. However, it was one man and phenomenon that stole the show and it was none other than Lionel Messi. Messi scored one and assisted two goals as Argentina steamrolled the Croatian challenge 3-0 to give their talisman a chance at achieving greatness for posterity. While the scoreline may flatter, the start of the game was tentative for the South American side. Argentina went into the game by making two changes from their last match against the Netherlands. Nicolas Tagliafico and Leandro Parades came into the squad replacing suspended Marcos Acuna and Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez. Meanwhile, Croatia went into the game with the same team that beat Brazil on penalties. The midfield of Kovacic-Modric-Brozovic that ran through the Brazilian midfield of Casemiro and Paqueta was given a stiff challenge by Scaloni who made the tactical changes. Argentina played a midfield four with MacAllister, Enzo, Paredes and de Paul attempting to stop the tank of a Croatian midfield. During the first half-an-hour of the game, Croatia looked compact and the midfield three managed to gobble up most of the Argentine transitions. Against the run of time, the first save of the match came in 25th minute when Livakovic had to be on alert from a sweet strike from Enzo Fernandez from outside the penalty box. Messi starts to weave his magic wand Just when it looked like Croatia were dominating the ball, Messi rose to the challenge and started making things happen. The little master began dragging Gvardiol, arguably the best defender of the tournament from his left-centre-back position and into the midfield. This allowed Argentina to knock the ball behind the Croatian defence with Julian Alvarez galloping forward, inviting goalkeeper Livakovic to foul him and earn a penalty. Notably, prior to the penalty, Modric had pulled off a nutmeg deep in Croatian territory to start a move that flowed beautifully up until it didn't. Messi took the penalty and promptly dispatched the ball to the back of the net. It was Messi's 11th goal in 25 World Cup games and the fifth of this tournament which brought him level with Kylian Mbappe in the golden boot race. Alvarez's fleet-footed, solo goal A mere five minutes after the goal, Argentina broke through the water-tight Croatian defence once again. Alvarez was served by Messi deep from the Argentine side of the pitch from where the Manchester City player made a good 40-50 yard dash with right-back Nahuel Molina providing the decoy run. While most players would have looked for options to the right and left, Alvarez, brimming with confidence went toe-to-toe with the Croatian defenders and courtesy of some luck and two ricochets, managed to finesse the ball past goalkeeper Livakovic. WATCH | Julian Alvarez's stunning solo goal in the FIFA 2022 World Cup semifinal Trailing at half-time, Croatian coach Zlatko Dalić was forced to make two substitutes as Nikola Vlasic and Mislav Orisic came on for Sosa and Pasalic. Few minutes into the second half, Croatia were dealt another blow as their midfield maestro Brozovic felt something and was forced to make way for previous match hero Bruno Petkovic. With a two-goal lead to defend and Croatia bombing men forward, Argentine coach Scaloni went for defensive changes as he brought on Martinez for Fernandes. Till the hour mark, Croatia did not have a single shot on target, suggesting Argentina had done their part of the bargain decently well. Box-office Messi on display Perhaps, the most Messi-esque moment came in the 69th minute when Messi single-handedly beat Gvardiol in the Croatian penalty box to set up Alvarez for his second goal. Classic Messi Move 🔥 The little 🧙‍♂️ tip-toes past the #Croatia defence to set up an easy finish for Julian Alvarez 👏 Watch #ARGCRO ➡ LIVE on #JioCinema & #Sports18 📲📺#Qatar2022 #FIFAWorldCup #FIFAWConJioCinema #FIFAWConSports18 pic.twitter.com/kMWpzRUQdB — JioCinema (@JioCinema) December 13, 2022 × The 2018 finalists kept knocking but with no finesse in the final third, the opening goal never arrived. While Argentine no. 10 Messi was weaving his magic on the field, his compatriot Luka Modric was taken off the pitch in the 81st minute to a rousing reception from the Croatian record, in what was perhaps his last game on the world stage. Messi's men will now look to earn Argentina their third World Cup trophy as they take on the winners of Morocco vs France game on Sunday. This will be Argentina's sixth appearance in the World Cup finals. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

FIFA World Cup 2022: Marvellous Messi fires Argentina to WC final as Alvarez grabs two

<p>AC Milan striker Zlatan&nbsp;Ibrahimovic believes it is written in the stars that Lionel Messi will be lifting the World Cup trophy.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I think it's already written who will win, and you know who I mean. I think Messi will lift the trophy, it's already written,"&nbsp;Ibrahimovic told reporters during AC Mila's mid-season tour of Dubai.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Swede made the remark ahead of Argentina's semi-final clash with Croatia. If Messi wins the World Cup, it will be his second international trophy, having won the Copa America last year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ibrahimovic played a season with Messi during his stay at Barcelona in 2009. Together, the duo won a La Liga title, Spanish Super Cup and a Club World Cup.&nbsp;However, after he had a feud with manager Pep Guardiola, the Swede went to AC Milan.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Messi - Argentina's talisman</strong></p>

<p>Messi has been Argentina's talisman for a long time. However, during this World Cup, he has taken his abilities a notch above.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Messi has already scored four goals and assisted two in five matches. After Argentina suffered a shock defeat to Saudi Arabia in the opening game, many feared that Messi will be returning home without making it to the knockouts.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-croatia-will-restrict-lionel-messi-from-having-the-best-game-of-his-life-in-sf-1-says-igor-stimac-542710"><strong>Read more: Exclusive: Croatia will restrict Lionel Messi from having the best game of his life in SF 1, says Igor Stimac</strong></a></p>

<p>However, the Argentine skipper regrouped his players and managed to get the best out of them. Messi's playmaking skills have been pivotal for the La Albiceleset during the crunch moments of the game.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It was Messi's brilliance during the quarterfinal&nbsp;game against the Netherlands that allowed the South American side to progress into the final four.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/argentina-to-face-croatia-in-the-first-semi-finals-of-world-cup-542513"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Argentina to face Croatia in the first Semi-Finals of World Cup</strong></a></p>

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<p>Usually cool, composed and collected on the pitch, Messi has not shied away from taking an aggressive stance whenever his team has required - the Netherlands game being a case in point.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the road to the final is still not clear. 2018 finalists Croatia are in Messi's way. The last time these two sides met in a World Cup was in 2018 only when Messi's men were beaten 3-0 by Croatia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With a midfield consisting of the likes of Luka Modric, Mateo Kovacic and&nbsp;Marcelo Brozovic, Argentina will have to dig deep if they are to go the distance. Croatia have time and again proved that they are not any pushovers.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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AC Milan striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic believes it is written in the stars that Lionel Messi will be lifting the World Cup trophy. “I think it's already written who will win, and you know who I mean.

AC Milan striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic believes it is written in the stars that Lionel Messi will be lifting the World Cup trophy. “I think it's already written who will win, and you know who I mean. I think Messi will lift the trophy, it's already written," Ibrahimovic told reporters during AC Mila's mid-season tour of Dubai. The Swede made the remark ahead of Argentina's semi-final clash with Croatia. If Messi wins the World Cup, it will be his second international trophy, having won the Copa America last year. Ibrahimovic played a season with Messi during his stay at Barcelona in 2009. Together, the duo won a La Liga title, Spanish Super Cup and a Club World Cup. However, after he had a feud with manager Pep Guardiola, the Swede went to AC Milan. Messi - Argentina's talisman Messi has been Argentina's talisman for a long time. However, during this World Cup, he has taken his abilities a notch above. Messi has already scored four goals and assisted two in five matches. After Argentina suffered a shock defeat to Saudi Arabia in the opening game, many feared that Messi will be returning home without making it to the knockouts. Read more: Exclusive: Croatia will restrict Lionel Messi from having the best game of his life in SF 1, says Igor Stimac However, the Argentine skipper regrouped his players and managed to get the best out of them. Messi's playmaking skills have been pivotal for the La Albiceleset during the crunch moments of the game. It was Messi's brilliance during the quarterfinal game against the Netherlands that allowed the South American side to progress into the final four. WATCH | Argentina to face Croatia in the first Semi-Finals of World Cup × Usually cool, composed and collected on the pitch, Messi has not shied away from taking an aggressive stance whenever his team has required - the Netherlands game being a case in point. However, the road to the final is still not clear. 2018 finalists Croatia are in Messi's way. The last time these two sides met in a World Cup was in 2018 only when Messi's men were beaten 3-0 by Croatia. With a midfield consisting of the likes of Luka Modric, Mateo Kovacic and Marcelo Brozovic, Argentina will have to dig deep if they are to go the distance. Croatia have time and again proved that they are not any pushovers. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'It's written...': Zlatan Ibrahimovic on Lionel Messi lifting the World Cup