Argentina claims third World Cup title, defeating France 4-2 shootout.
At the Lusail Stadium, a thrilling World Cup final that featured two goals from France’s Kylian Mbappe and two goals from Argentina ‘s captain Lionel Messi ended 3-3 after extra time.
Gonzalo Montiel, a substitute from Argentina, scored the game-winning penalty kick to end the agonising shootout loss for the reigning world champions France in a night of remarkable high drama.
France had rallied from 2-0 and 3-2 deficits in extra time to draw the game at 3-3 and force penalties.
Prior to Angel Di Maria’s goal in the second half, Messi had given Argentina the lead from the penalty spot in the first half.
Up until Mbappe scored twice in the 80th and 81st minutes to tie the game at 2-2, the Argentinians appeared to be cruising to victory.
Hugo Lloris of France parried Lautaro Martinez’s effort, but Messi of Argentina scored from close range to give Argentina a 3-2 advantage in extra time. France appeared to be the more likely team to continue and win the game.
But two minutes into extra time, Montiel gave up a penalty for handball, adding additional drama.
Mbappe, a teammate of Messi’s at Paris Saint-Germain, stepped forward to convert a second penalty kick to force overtime and overtime penalties.
