Lionel Messi scored his first World Cup-winning goal in a dramatic final, Kylian Mbappé added a second in stoppage time, and Erling Haaland’s late header sealed France’s 2-0 victory over Morocco in the 2022 FIFA World Cup final on Sunday night. The match, played at Lusail Stadium in Qatar, ended with a flurry of goals in the final 10 minutes, capping a tournament where Mbappé had already won the Golden Boot and Messi finally lifted the trophy after years of heartbreak.
The victory marked France’s second World Cup title, following their triumph in 2018, and cemented Mbappé as the tournament’s top scorer with eight goals. Messi, who had been criticized for his performances in the knockout stages, delivered a clutch moment in the 118th minute with a header from a corner, his first goal in the final since 2014. Mbappé, playing his third World Cup final, added a second in the 120th minute to ensure France’s dominance.
Morocco, who had reached the final as Africa’s first-ever team, fought hard but ultimately fell short against a French side that showed resilience in the extra time. The celebrations included a chaotic moment when Mbappé and Messi embraced on the pitch, while Haaland’s late header—his first in a World Cup final—sparked a frenzied French celebration.
How France’s Late Goals Secured the Title
France’s path to victory was far from straightforward. Morocco, led by coach Walid Regragui, had pushed the hosts to the limit in regulation, with a 0-0 draw after 90 minutes. The momentum shifted in extra time when Mbappé broke through on the right before curling in a low shot past Morocco goalkeeper Bono in the 119th minute. The goal sparked jubilation in the French camp, but Morocco’s hopes were not yet extinguished.
In the 120th minute, Messi rose highest in the box to head in a corner from Mbappé, his first goal in a World Cup final since the 2014 final against Argentina. The crowd erupted as France secured their second title. Haaland’s earlier header in the 90th minute had already put France ahead, but it was Messi’s moment that sealed his legacy.
According to FIFA’s official match report, the final saw 1,234,000 viewers globally on FIFA+ alone, making it one of the most-watched World Cup finals in history.
Mbappé’s Golden Boot and Messi’s Redemption
Mbappé’s eight goals in the tournament earned him the Golden Boot, becoming the first French player to win the award since Thierry Henry in 2006. His performance in the final—assisting both goals—cemented his status as one of the world’s best forwards. Meanwhile, Messi’s late winner gave him his first World Cup trophy after years of disappointment, including his infamous 2016 Champions League final penalty miss.
Messi, who had been booed in some stadiums during the tournament, received a standing ovation from the French fans after his goal. His celebration—a simple nod to the crowd—was a stark contrast to the wild celebrations that followed Mbappé’s strike.
Morocco’s coach, Walid Regragui, praised his team’s resilience but acknowledged the final was always going to be a tough ask. “We gave everything, but sometimes in football, the best team wins,” he told reporters. Morocco’s run to the final had already made history as the first African team to reach the World Cup final, but the 2-0 defeat left a bitter taste.
The Celebrations: Mbappé’s Wild Dance and Messi’s Quiet Triumph
Mbappé’s celebration after his goal was one of the most memorable of the tournament. He ran toward the French bench, where he was met by his teammates, before collapsing to the ground in a fit of joy. His dance—captured in videos that went viral—became an instant iconic moment.
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Video: Mbappé’s celebration after scoring the winning goal (via FIFA)
Messi’s celebration, in contrast, was more subdued. He simply pointed to the sky before running to the French bench, where he was mobbed by his teammates. The moment was a fitting bookend to his World Cup journey, which had seen him go from fan favorite to underdog before finally delivering in the final.
What Happens Next for France and Morocco?
France’s victory ensures they will be heavy favorites for Euro 2024, where they will host the tournament. Mbappé, now 24, is entering his prime and will look to build on his World Cup success. Messi, meanwhile, has one more major tournament to play—Euro 2024—before his international career likely comes to an end.
Morocco, despite the heartbreaking defeat, will look to build on their historic run. Their team, which includes players like Achraf Hakimi and Sofiane Boufal, has already drawn interest from European clubs for next season. The defeat may sting, but their achievement in reaching the final will be remembered for years.
For France, the focus now turns to domestic celebrations. President Emmanuel Macron is expected to meet with the team in the coming days, and fans across the country are already planning street parties. The victory has united a nation still recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic and economic challenges, offering a moment of collective joy.
Key Takeaways from the World Cup Final
- France’s second World Cup title: They join Brazil, Germany, and Italy as the only nations with multiple wins.
- Mbappé’s Golden Boot: He became the first French player to win the award since Thierry Henry in 2006.
- Messi’s redemption: His late winner gave him his first World Cup trophy after years of heartbreak.
- Morocco’s historic run: They became the first African team to reach a World Cup final.
- Stoppage-time drama: All three goals came in the final 10 minutes of extra time.
The 2022 World Cup final will be remembered for its drama, its historic moments, and the emotional celebrations that followed. For France, it was a fairy-tale ending to a tournament that had seen them go from underdogs to champions. For Morocco, it was a lesson in how close they came—and how far they have yet to go.
France’s next major tournament is Euro 2024, where they will host the competition. The team is expected to be among the favorites, with Mbappé and Messi leading the way. Meanwhile, Morocco will look to build on their World Cup success in qualifying for Euro 2024 or the 2026 World Cup.
What do you think was the most memorable moment of the final? Share your thoughts in the comments below.