Qatar World Cup 2022 final: Fans ecstatic as countdown begins
Footing fans across the world are eagerly awaiting what will be the memorable final of the Qatar World Cup.
The final sees two footballing giants – France and Argentina battle it out in Doha, in what will be a historic win for either team.
France is looking to become just the third team to retain the trophy in its 93-year history. Their manager Didier Deschamps will be hoping to become the first manager since Italy’s Vittorio Pozzo in 1939 to win consecutive titles.
For Argentina, the hopes and dreams of an entire nation rest of the shoulders of footballing icon Lionel Messi. The greatest player of all time has already announced that the World Cup 2022 final will be his last game for the national team. The 35-year-old has one of the most glittering careers ever and a World Cup win will be the ultimate crown.
Argentina – hopes of a nation rest on Messi
In Argentina – a country in deep economic crisis – the World Cup is uniting the country and offering a moment of happiness.
Amid inflation and rising costs, millions struggle to get through each month. Many didn’t expect Argentina to get too far in this tournament, but with the talent of Lionel Messi, anything is possible.
For a month at least, for the people of Argentina – football has taken precedence and their worries and struggles are, for now, at the back of their minds.
“This country has been hit so hard, the cup is uniting us, we have this personality, the best footballer in the world and he’s loved everywhere,” bar owner Luis Sarni, told the BBC.
Whilst Messi will be the focus, the whole team is doing the country proud.
“They say the football pitches don’t vibrate, they have a heartbeat,” Luis says. “Every Argentine sees themselves as a coach, everyone has a different opinion, but the moment we celebrate, we cry, we cry a lot – and hug!”
France ecstatic ahead of World Cup clash
Fans in France are beyond excited by the upcoming final. For the team, this is their fourth final in seven World Cups. France is unbeaten in its last 10 World Cup matches against South American sides. Their last defeat was in 1978 – by Argentina.
For France – much of their hope rests with wonder kid Kylian Mbappe, who might end up regretting the comments he made about South American football earlier this year.
Mbappe said South American football is not as “advanced” as European, because of the “lower” level of competition there.
He was referencing that the last South American side to win the cup was Brazil in 2002 – and Argentina hasn’t won since 1986.
The last France vs Argentina match came in the Round of 16 in Russia in 2018. France won 4-3, with Mbappe netting two goals himself.
France will go into this game with all the confidence, whilst Argentina will be out for revenge – and to seal Messi’s place as the greatest footballer of all time.
