Fans around the world witnessed a thrilling final match in the FIFA World Cup Final between Argentina and France that ended 3-3 after 120 minutes. Thus, the game went into a penalty shootout. Finally, Argentina won the shootout by 4-2 and won the FIFA World Cup 2022.
It's over a month of football that has delivered thrills and drama aplenty with some of the world's greatest stars delivering on the biggest stage. But who makes the team for the 2022 FIFA World Cup?
Emiliano Martinez, Goalkeeper (Argentina)
He worked for it, he dreamed it, and eventually, Emiliano Martinez made it. The Argentine goalkeeper had a World Cup to remember, making crucial saves when his team needed him the most. Dibu saved two penalties in a shootout win over the Netherlands in the quarterfinals, but it was his performance in the final that made him win the Golden Glove. After saving Argentina in the last minute of the extra time, he saved Kingsley Coman's penalty in the shootout.
Theo Hernandez, Left Back (France)
This left-back from France impressed everyone with his performance. His pace was instrumental to break into the opposition half with many attacking threats. It was the first World Cup for Theo Hernandez. He scored one goal against Morocco and came up with two assists in the tournament.
Josko Gvardiol, Centre Back (Croatia)
He excelled in covering the space behind his left back and delivered some of his best performances in the biggest games -- the goalless draw with Belgium and Brazil in particular.
Romain Saiss, Centre Back (Morocco)
This Moroccan defender also played brilliantly throughout this FIFA World Cup edition. It was the second World Cup for Roman Saiss as he represented his country in the 2018 World Cup also. In this edition, he has managed to score one goal without any single assist.
Achraf Hakimi, Right Back (Morocco)
Achraf Hakimi, the PSG right back, who, before this tournament, was known as more of an attacking force. Yet, he led the World Cup in total tackles and possession won in the defensive third whilst also sitting in the top five for interceptions.
Sofyan Amrabat, Left Centre Midfielder (Morocco)
This centre midfielder from Morocco played a huge role in his country’s dream run in this World Cup. It was the second World Cup for Sofyan Amrabat. He represented his country in the 2018 World Cup also. He did not manage any goals or assists. But, his contribution to holding that midfield was crucial in Morocco’s success.
Mateo Kovacic, Centre Midfielder (Croatia)
This centre midfielder from Croatia showed some class when it comes to creating attacking threats. It was the third World Cup for Mateo Kovacic. He represented his country in the 2014 and 2018 World Cups also. However, He did not manage any goals or assists in this edition of the tournament.
Antoine Griezmann, Right Centre Midfielder (France)
Antoine Griezmann's overall level at the World Cup was great, even if his performance in the final was poor. The Atleti star was Les Bleus’ brain throughout the tournament, and he also made an effort to contribute at the time of recovering the ball. It didn't end well, but to be fair, his level prior to the final was superb.
Kylian Mbappe, Left Wing (France)
Kylian Mbappe has once again shown that the sky is the limit for him. The Frenchman has been completely unstoppable, especially in the final—scoring a hat-trick that saw him win the Golden Boot. Though his team lost, Mbappe did everything to win another World Cup for his country.
Julian Alvarez, Centre Forward (Argentina)
Julian Alvarez headed into the World Cup as Lautaro Martinez's backup, but he was already the starter by the third group game. The Man City sensation gave Argentina incredible energy on the field, putting pressure on the opponents and running every ball like it was the last. And most importantly, he contributed to Argentina's success with four goals.
Lionel Messi, Right Wing (Argentina)
At 35, Lionel Messi proved that for him, age is just a number. In what has probably been his last World Cup, Messi had a tournament to remember with Argentina. He scored, provided assists, and put the team on his back in the most crucial moments. Of course, it ended perfectly.