Doha: Argentina clinched the FIFA World Cup title beating France 4-2 on penalties after a 3-3 draw in a thrilling finale at the Lusail Stadium yesterday.
With 88,966 spectators attending the match at the iconic venue and billions across the globe watching on TV, the dramatic title clash provided a magnificent finish to Qatar 2022 hailed as the best ever edition of the World Cup – the first to be hosted in the Middle East and the Arab world.
Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani crowned Argentina, who won their third world title. The Amir and FIFA President Gianni Infantino handed over gold medals to the winning players while President of France H E Emmanuel Macron and Infantino presented silver medals to France’s players.
Also, H H the Amir handed the World Cup Best Player of Qatar 2022 award to Argentina captain Lionel Messi. The ceremony was also attended by Personal Representative of H H the Amir H H Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad Al Thani.
Yesterday, Messi scored two goals in the triumph that finally gave Argentina superstar - the record seven-time Ballon d’or winner – the elusive world title missing in his trophy-laden career.
It was heartbreak for French striker Kylian Mbappe – who finished on the losing side despite scoring a hat-trick – only second in a World Cup final after England’s Sir Geoff Hurst (1966).
Messi scored first goal from the spot in 23rd minute while Angel Di Maria doubled the lead for Argentina in 36th minute before France made a stunning fightback through Mbappe’s quick brace (80 and 81 minutes) to take the final to extra time.
The Argentina captain scored again in 108th minute before Mbappe completed his hat-trick with another penalty strike to take the match into penalties.
Goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez gave Argentina advantage blocking Kingsley Coman strike with Aurelien Tchouameni hitting his shot wide. All Argentina shooters were on target with Gonzalo Montiel hitting the winning penalty to seal first World Cup title for Argentina since 1986
It was a night to remember for all football fans across the world, who witnessed the culmination of the best-ever World Cup, hosted by Qatar in a flawless manner.
Stunning closing ceremony
Ahead of the memorable final, a stunning closing ceremony was held featuring a raft of stars, including Dana, Davido, Aisha, Manal, Balqees, Rahma, RedOne, Ozuma, Gims and Nora.
A host of songs from the tournament’s Official Soundtrack were performed while 32 flying orbs paid tribute to each participating nation.
Despite being the most compact World Cup in modern history, Qatar staged 29 days of thrilling action and entertainment with huge success. No untoward incident was reported during the 64 matches at eight state-of-the-art stadiums which remained packed during all the games as more than 3.4 million tickets were sold for the global tournament.
Fans reveled the opportunity to attend more than one match a day during the early stages of the tournament.
Qatar welcomed more than 1.4 million fans and the country continued to draw praise from competing players of 32 teams, their coaches, officials and fans for its excellent organisation, hospitality and world class facilities throughout the tournament.
“Qatar is incredibly proud to have hosted a landmark and unforgettable edition of the FIFA World Cup. This tournament has inspired billions of people across the Middle East, Arab world and globally,” said Hassan Al Thawadi, Secretary-General, Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy (SC), and Chairman, FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 LLC (Q22).
“Through football, we have bridged the gap between East and West and showcased the very best of our people and culture. The social, cultural, economic and environmental benefits of hosting this magnificent tournament will be felt for decades to come.”
Qatar hosted a vast number of entertainment activations across the country, including the FIFA Fan Festival at Al Bidda Park, which welcomed more than 1.8 million visitors, and the Corniche Activation. The tourist attractions all provided an opportunity for fans to celebrate their shared love of football in what proved a beautiful exchange of cultures from across the globe.
Eng. Yasir Al Jamal, Director General, SC, said: “It has been an incredible journey – not just the last 29 days – but the entire 12 years leading up to the tournament. Back in 2010, we told the world to ‘Expect Amazing’ and we have delivered in spectacular fashion.”
“Thanks to outstanding planning and collaboration with our trusted countrywide and international stakeholders, we have delivered an exciting fan experience, smooth transport operations and the most accessible FIFA World Cup in history. I pay tribute to all our dedicated staff and trusted partners for always going the extra mile and delivering a truly unique edition of the FIFA World Cup,” he added.
Nasser Al Khater, CEO, Q22, said: “When fans across the globe look back on Qatar 2022, they will remember exciting action on the pitch, fantastic stadiums and a memorable fan experience. We delivered our mission to host a joyous celebration of the most popular sport on the planet – one where fans united through their shared passion for football.”
“We are proud to have hosted the most compact, innovative and family-friendly FIFA World Cup ever – one that will deliver a sustainable legacy for communities in Qatar, across the region and globally. This tournament has set a benchmark for future mega events – and everyone who played a key role over the past 12 years should be very proud of their contribution.”
