The Greatest Messi Wins Argentina Their Third World Cup After Maradona in 1986

On December 18th, 2022, the world watched in awe as the greatest player of all time, Lionel Messi, led Argentina to victory in the Qatar 2022 FIFA World Cup against France.  From the opening whistle, it was clear that Argentina was the stronger team. Messi was in top form, weaving through the French defense with ease. He scored the first goal of the match from the penalty spot. His teammates were equally impressive, working tirelessly to support him and keep the pressure on the French side. By the 80th minute, Argentina was leading 2-0. France seemed like a no match for Argentina's attacking prowess. It took a valiant effort from the French star Kylian Mbappe to level the game in the dying minutes, forcing it to extra time. In the next 30 minutes, Messi & Mbappe rose to the occasion again for their national side with a goal each, making it 3-3 on paper. Finally, the game went to a penalty shootout to have a winner.  In the end, Argentina emerged as the deserved winners, with their goalkeeper Emi Martinez making two Herculean penalty saves, who also went on to win the Golden Glove trophy for being the best goalkeeper in the World Cup. The penalties ended 4-2 in Argentina's favor.  Messi was named the tournament's Best Player, having won the Golden Ball for the second time after 2014. Mbappe won the Golden Boot for scoring the most goals in the World Cup. It was a momentous occasion for the Argentine team and Messi, who has always dreamed of leading his country to victory on the world stage like the great Diego Maradona did in 1986. As he lifted the trophy, tears of joy streamed down his face, a testament to the hard work and dedication that had brought him to this moment. It was a moment that will be remembered for years to come, as Argentina and Messi cemented their place in the annals of football history.