Exactly 365 Days After World Cup Win, Lionel Scaloni Recalls ‘Unforgettable Match’ Against Kylian Mbappe’s France

On this day, a year ago, Argentina etched their names in the history books. December 18, 2022, saw Lionel Messi and co finally bring the World Cup back to Rosaria after a 36-year exile. While ardent fans would be looking to celebrate the anniversary of the historic date, La Albiceleste coach Lionel Scaloni has opened up on the ‘eternal and historic’ final against Kylian Mbappe and France. 

Meanwhile, Argentina will return to action in the summer of 2024, as they will be gearing up for the Copa America. After winning the 2021 campaign, they’ll certainly look to defend the title. 

Lionel Scaloni opens up on the historic World Cup final against France 

The 2022 FIFA World Cup final between Argentina and France goes down as one of the most enthralling matches in history. While it sent the soccer fraternity on a rollercoaster ride, a similar effect was felt by Argentinian coach Lionel Scaloni. Speaking on the Laureus-presented show, Scaloni revealed, “The way it unfolded, the way both teams played, without thinking it was a World Cup final – because sometimes you play with fear – but this was the complete opposite. It was an unforgettable match – both eternal and historic.” 

Notably, Argentina enjoyed a 2-0 lead in the first half, thanks to Lionel Messi’s penalty and Angel Di Maria’s second. However, things went downhill for La Albiceleste, with Kylian Mbappe adding two goals in under a minute. As the match went to extra time, Messi restored his nation’s lead, but Mbappe completed his hat-trick in the dying moments of the game.

Unfortunately, the Frenchman’s efforts went in vain, as France lost 2-4 on penalties. Either way, this emphatic final does justify Scaloni’s words. 

READ MORE: Lionel Messi Accused of Intentionally Kicking Atletico Madrid Star- “At the End, He Lost His Mind”

Lionel Messi had faith in his teammates

While Argentina concluded its World Cup campaign on a good note, it commenced on a poor note. Scaloni’s side suffered a shocking 2-1 defeat in the opening group-stage match against Saudi Arabia. Yet, that didn’t affect Messi’s confidence in his side winning the trophy. In an interview, he said, “I had faith in myself, my teammates, in all of us. I don’t know, there was just a feeling it would go our way, we were calm in that sense.”

Certainly, Messi was right in his own way. In fact, after winning the Golden Trophy, things went onward and upward for La Pulga. The Inter Miami star lifted the Laureus World Sports Award. He also recently added his eighth Ballon d’Or. Interestingly, Messi has a chance to add another individual accolade in the form of the FIFA ‘The Best’ award. Let’s see how that goes for the 35-year-old. 

WATCH THIS STORY: Soccer Stars Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo Make a Huge Assist for Esports Space