Lionel Messi has admitted he dreamed of Argentina’s 2022 World Cup triumph “many times,” a victory that provided the perfect ending to his legendary career on the international stage.
The story of Argentina’s campaign in Qatar was one of drama and destiny, with Messi at its heart. It began with a shocking 2-1 defeat to Saudi Arabia in their opening Group C match, a result that sent shockwaves through the tournament. However, the Albiceleste rallied, with Messi scoring in a crucial 2-0 win over Mexico before defeating Poland to top the group.
The knockout stages became a testament to nerve and resilience. A hard-fought 2-1 victory over Australia in the Round of 16 was followed by a tense quarter-final against the Netherlands. Argentina led 2-0, conceded two late goals to force extra time, and ultimately triumphed 4-3 in a penalty shootout, with Messi converting his spot-kick.
The semi-final was a masterclass, a 3-0 dismantling of Croatia where Messi provided a magical assist for Julian Alvarez’s third goal. This set up a final for the ages against France on December 18, 2022.
Messi opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the 23rd minute, and Angel Di Maria doubled the lead before halftime. With Argentina leading 2-0 deep into the second half, the dream seemed secure. Yet Kylian Mbappe’s stunning late brace, scoring in the 80th and 81st minutes, forced extra time.
Undeterred, Messi put Argentina ahead again in the 108th minute, only for Mbappe to complete his hat-trick with another penalty in the 118th minute. The epic contest was decided by penalties, where Argentina prevailed 4-2. Gonzalo Montiel scored the decisive kick, sealing a 3-3 (4-2) victory and Argentina’s first World Cup since 1986.
“I dreamed of this many times. I wanted it so much that I’m still struggling to believe it,” Messi said after the final, holding the trophy. He finished the tournament with 7 goals and 3 assists, claiming the Golden Ball award for the best player.
The victory in Doha was the culmination of Messi’s long quest for football’s ultimate prize with his country, a journey that included a painful final defeat in 2014. In 2022, he finally secured his destiny, delivering the perfect ending for Argentina and cementing his legacy as one of the greatest to ever play the game.
