Why Argentina’s win over France was the greatest World Cup final ever

By Ben Morse, CNN
Updated 3:09 AM EST, Tue December 20, 2022
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CNN  — 

It seems only yesterday that Enner Valencia was swatting aside Qatar in the 2022 World Cup’s curtain raiser.

As the dust settles on an enthralling month of soccer action, fans have been treated to arguably one of the greatest ever World Cup tournaments in the sport’s history.

Argentina captain Lionel Messi lifts the FIFA World Cup trophy following victory over France in the FIFA World Cup Final match at the Lusail Stadium in Lusail, Qatar. Picture date: Sunday December 18, 2022.
Argentina captain Lionel Messi lifts the FIFA World Cup trophy following victory over France in the FIFA World Cup Final match at the Lusail Stadium in Lusail, Qatar. Picture date: Sunday December 18, 2022.
Mike Egerton/AP

Reaction to Lionel Messi lifting the World Cup trophy wearing a bisht shows cultural fault lines of Qatar 2022

In fitting fashion, Sunday’s final exploded like a firework display to provide the ultimate conclusion to Qatar 2022.

This was a final that had superstar rivalries, penalties, iconic goals and goalkeeping masterclasses, culminating in Lionel Messi’s crowning as world champion after Argentina beat France on penalties.

The pièce de resistance, a moment that will live long in the memory like an impressionistic masterpiece, is that iconic image of Messi – lifted aloft on his teammates’ shoulders – with the World Cup trophy finally in his hands.

Lionel Messi holds up the World Cup trophy after Argentina defeated France in the tournament final on Sunday, December 18.
Lionel Messi holds up the World Cup trophy after Argentina defeated France in the tournament final on Sunday, December 18.
Jabin Botsford/The Washington Post/Getty Images
Argentina fans celebrate in Buenos Aires.
Argentina fans celebrate in Buenos Aires.
Rodrigo Abd/AP
Messi holds the Golden Ball trophy, awarded to the tournament's top player, while kissing the World Cup trophy.
Messi holds the Golden Ball trophy, awarded to the tournament's top player, while kissing the World Cup trophy.
Julian Finney/Getty Images
Argentina players react after Gonzalo Montiel scored his penalty to clinch the shootout victory.
Argentina players react after Gonzalo Montiel scored his penalty to clinch the shootout victory.
Julian Finney/Getty Images
French star Kylian Mbappé sits on the team's bench after the loss.
French star Kylian Mbappé sits on the team's bench after the loss.
Franck Fife/AFP/Getty Images
French players react during the penalty shootout.
French players react during the penalty shootout.
Julian Finney/Getty Images
Montiel becomes emotional after slotting home the winning penalty.
Montiel becomes emotional after slotting home the winning penalty.
Ian MacNicol/Getty Images
Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez celebrates after blocking Kingsley Coman's penalty in the shootout.
Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez celebrates after blocking Kingsley Coman's penalty in the shootout.
Natacha Pisarenko/AP
Mbappé scored a penalty late in extra time to force the shootout. He scored all of France's three goals.
Mbappé scored a penalty late in extra time to force the shootout. He scored all of France's three goals.
Natacha Pisarenko/AP
Messi scored for Argentina in extra time, giving his team a brief 3-2 lead.
Messi scored for Argentina in extra time, giving his team a brief 3-2 lead.
Hannah Mckay/Reuters
Mbappé slams home his team's second goal to tie the match at 2-2 in the second half. It came just moments after he scored on a penalty.
Mbappé slams home his team's second goal to tie the match at 2-2 in the second half. It came just moments after he scored on a penalty.
Dan Mullan/Getty Images
Argentina's Julián Álvarez, left, competes with France's Dayot Upamecano.
Argentina's Julián Álvarez, left, competes with France's Dayot Upamecano.
Jose Breton/Pics Action/NurPhoto/Getty Images
Angel Di Maria celebrates after scoring Argentina's second goal in the first half. Argentina led 2-0 at halftime.
Angel Di Maria celebrates after scoring Argentina's second goal in the first half. Argentina led 2-0 at halftime.
Catherine Ivill/Getty Images
Di Maria slots the ball past France goalkeeper Hugo Lloris, finishing an Argentina counterattack for the 2-0 lead.
Di Maria slots the ball past France goalkeeper Hugo Lloris, finishing an Argentina counterattack for the 2-0 lead.
Dan Mullan/Getty Images
Messi opens the scoring with a penalty in the 23rd minute.
Messi opens the scoring with a penalty in the 23rd minute.
Matthias Hangst/Getty Images
Messi celebrates after converting his penalty.
Messi celebrates after converting his penalty.
Dan Mullan/Getty Images
Players line up for the national anthems before the final at the Lusail Stadium.
Players line up for the national anthems before the final at the Lusail Stadium.
Christophe Ena/AP
Croatia players celebrate after defeating Morocco 2-1 in the World Cup's third-place match on Saturday, December 17.
Croatia players celebrate after defeating Morocco 2-1 in the World Cup's third-place match on Saturday, December 17.
David Ramos/FIFA/Getty Images
Croatia captain Luka Modrić celebrates with his daughter after the medal ceremony on Saturday.
Croatia captain Luka Modrić celebrates with his daughter after the medal ceremony on Saturday.
Francisco Seco/AP
Morocco's Achraf Dari scores a header to tie the match against Croatia. Croatia ultimately regained the lead with a goal from Mislav Oršić.
Morocco's Achraf Dari scores a header to tie the match against Croatia. Croatia ultimately regained the lead with a goal from Mislav Oršić.
Alex Livesey - Danehouse/Getty Images
Croatia's Joško Gvardiol, right, celebrates after scoring his side's opening goal against Morocco.
Croatia's Joško Gvardiol, right, celebrates after scoring his side's opening goal against Morocco.
Francisco Seco/AP
French players celebrate after defeating Morocco 2-0 in the World Cup semifinals on Wednesday, December 14.
French players celebrate after defeating Morocco 2-0 in the World Cup semifinals on Wednesday, December 14.
Ulrik Pedersen/DeFodi Images/Getty Images
Morocco's Jawad El Yamiq attempts a bicycle kick during the first half against France. His shot clanged off the post.
Morocco's Jawad El Yamiq attempts a bicycle kick during the first half against France. His shot clanged off the post.
Fabio Ferrari/LaPresse/Sipa
Morocco fans show their support at Wednesday's semifinal.
Morocco fans show their support at Wednesday's semifinal.
Buda Mendes/Getty Images
Theo Hernandez scores France's opening goal early in the match against Morocco.
Theo Hernandez scores France's opening goal early in the match against Morocco.
Dan Mullan/Getty Images
Argentina star Lionel Messi, left, celebrates with teammate Julián Álvarez after Álvarez scored his first of two goals against Croatia in the World Cup semifinals on Tuesday, December 13. Messi scored the other goal on a first-half penalty.
Argentina star Lionel Messi, left, celebrates with teammate Julián Álvarez after Álvarez scored his first of two goals against Croatia in the World Cup semifinals on Tuesday, December 13. Messi scored the other goal on a first-half penalty.
Richard Heathcote/Getty Images
Croatian defender Joško Gvardiol reacts in the net after Álvarez scored to put Argentina up 3-0.
Croatian defender Joško Gvardiol reacts in the net after Álvarez scored to put Argentina up 3-0.
Martin Meissner/AP
Argentina players celebrate their 2-0 lead in the first half.
Argentina players celebrate their 2-0 lead in the first half.
David Ramos/FIFA/Getty Images
Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez reaches out for a save against Croatia.
Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez reaches out for a save against Croatia.
Markus Gilliar/GES Sportfoto/Getty Images
England's Mason Mount appears dejected as French players celebrate their 2-1 quarterfinal win at the World Cup on December 10.
England's Mason Mount appears dejected as French players celebrate their 2-1 quarterfinal win at the World Cup on December 10.
Robbie Jay Barratt/AMAGetty Images
French players try to block a Marcus Rashford free kick late in the match.
French players try to block a Marcus Rashford free kick late in the match.
Michael Regan/FIFA/Getty Images
Olivier Giroud celebrates after scoring a goal for France that turned out to be the match-winner.
Olivier Giroud celebrates after scoring a goal for France that turned out to be the match-winner.
Marc Atkins/Getty Images
England's Harry Kane scores a penalty to even up the score against France. But he missed a penalty in the second half with France leading 2-1.
England's Harry Kane scores a penalty to even up the score against France. But he missed a penalty in the second half with France leading 2-1.
Clive Brunskill/Getty Images
Aurélien Tchouaméni celebrates after scoring France's opening goal against England.
Aurélien Tchouaméni celebrates after scoring France's opening goal against England.
Dylan Martinez/Reuters
French star Kylian Mbappé is tackled by England's Declan Rice.
French star Kylian Mbappé is tackled by England's Declan Rice.
Matthias Hangst/Getty Images
A memorial for American journalist Grant Wahl sits in the press area of Al Bayt Stadium on December 10. <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2022/12/14/us/grant-wahl-cause-death/index.html" target="_blank">Wahl died after collapsing</a> during the quarterfinal match between Argentina and the Netherlands. His wife, Dr. Celine Gounder, said he died of an aortic aneurysm that ruptured.
A memorial for American journalist Grant Wahl sits in the press area of Al Bayt Stadium on December 10. Wahl died after collapsing during the quarterfinal match between Argentina and the Netherlands. His wife, Dr. Celine Gounder, said he died of an aortic aneurysm that ruptured.
Hector Vivas/FIFA/Getty Images
Morocco players celebrate after defeating Portugal 1-0 on December 10. The "Atlas Lions" made history by becoming the first African team to reach a World Cup semifinal.
Morocco players celebrate after defeating Portugal 1-0 on December 10. The "Atlas Lions" made history by becoming the first African team to reach a World Cup semifinal.
Tom Weller/dpa/Getty Images
Morocco fans celebrate in the stands following their team's victory on December 10.
Morocco fans celebrate in the stands following their team's victory on December 10.
Justin Setterfield/Getty Images
Sofiane Boufal of Morocco celebrates with a family member.
Sofiane Boufal of Morocco celebrates with a family member.
Mike Hewitt/FIFA/Getty Images
Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo sinks to the ground beside Moroccan goalkeeper Yassine Bounou.
Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo sinks to the ground beside Moroccan goalkeeper Yassine Bounou.
Manan Vatsyayana/AFP/Getty Images
Youssef En-Nesyri heads the ball to score Morocco's goal against Portugal.
Youssef En-Nesyri heads the ball to score Morocco's goal against Portugal.
Francois Nel/Getty Images
Players from Argentina, top, and the Netherlands react at the end of the penalty shootout that decided their quarterfinal match at the World Cup on December 9. Argentina prevailed on spot kicks after the match ended 2-2.
Players from Argentina, top, and the Netherlands react at the end of the penalty shootout that decided their quarterfinal match at the World Cup on December 9. Argentina prevailed on spot kicks after the match ended 2-2.
Paul Childs/Reuters
Argentina's Lionel Messi, left, and Leandro Paredes celebrate their berth in the semifinals.
Argentina's Lionel Messi, left, and Leandro Paredes celebrate their berth in the semifinals.
Ricardo Mazalan/AP
Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez tries to shake Teun Koopmeiners' hand during the shootout.
Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez tries to shake Teun Koopmeiners' hand during the shootout.
Elsa/Getty Images
Martinez saves the penalty of Dutch captain Virgil van Dijk early in the shootout. Martinez made two saves in the shootout, which finished 4-3 for Argentina.
Martinez saves the penalty of Dutch captain Virgil van Dijk early in the shootout. Martinez made two saves in the shootout, which finished 4-3 for Argentina.
Kai Pfaffenbach/Reuters
Dutch players celebrate after Wout Weghorst scored late into second-half stoppage time to extend the match.
Dutch players celebrate after Wout Weghorst scored late into second-half stoppage time to extend the match.
Patrick Smith/FIFA/Getty Images
Weghorst overpowers Enzo Fernández on a carefully orchestrated set play to tie the match at 2-2.
Weghorst overpowers Enzo Fernández on a carefully orchestrated set play to tie the match at 2-2.
Patrick Smith/FIFA/Getty Images
Van Dijk knocks over Paredes as Dutch players run onto the field in the second half. The skirmish started after a hard Paredes foul on Nathan Aké. Paredes then smashed the ball into the Dutch bench.
Van Dijk knocks over Paredes as Dutch players run onto the field in the second half. The skirmish started after a hard Paredes foul on Nathan Aké. Paredes then smashed the ball into the Dutch bench.
Matthias Hangst/Getty Images
Brazilian star Neymar is comforted by Dani Alves after Brazil were knocked out of the World Cup by Croatia on December 9. Croatia won a penalty shootout after the match ended 1-1.
Brazilian star Neymar is comforted by Dani Alves after Brazil were knocked out of the World Cup by Croatia on December 9. Croatia won a penalty shootout after the match ended 1-1.
Jewel Samad/AFP/Getty Images
Croatian goalkeeper Dominik Livaković celebrates after Marquinhos hit the post on the last kick of the penalty shootout. It was Croatia's second straight shootout win in this World Cup.
Croatian goalkeeper Dominik Livaković celebrates after Marquinhos hit the post on the last kick of the penalty shootout. It was Croatia's second straight shootout win in this World Cup.
Matthew Childs/Reuters
Croatian players run around the field and celebrate their victory as Marquinhos, bottom right, falls to his knees.
Croatian players run around the field and celebrate their victory as Marquinhos, bottom right, falls to his knees.
Alessandra Tarantino/AP
Croatia's Borna Sosa hits Antony in the face while tussling for position.
Croatia's Borna Sosa hits Antony in the face while tussling for position.
Frank Augstein/AP
Neymar opens the scoring in extra time after the match went scoreless in regulation. With the goal, he tied Pelé as Brazil's all-time goalscorer. But Croatia would tie the match a few minutes later with a goal from Bruno Petković.
Neymar opens the scoring in extra time after the match went scoreless in regulation. With the goal, he tied Pelé as Brazil's all-time goalscorer. But Croatia would tie the match a few minutes later with a goal from Bruno Petković.
Manu Fernandez/AP
Gonçalo Ramos celebrates his first of three goals in Portugal's 6-1 thrashing of Switzerland on December 6. The win booked Portugal's spot in the quarterfinals.
Gonçalo Ramos celebrates his first of three goals in Portugal's 6-1 thrashing of Switzerland on December 6. The win booked Portugal's spot in the quarterfinals.
Justin Setterfield/Getty Images
Pepe scores Portugal's second goal on December 6.
Pepe scores Portugal's second goal on December 6.
Peter Cziborra/Reuters
Portugal manager Fernando Santos speaks with Cristiano Ronaldo before bringing him off the bench against Switzerland. Ronaldo started the first three group-stage games but was replaced by Ramos for the round-of-16 clash.
Portugal manager Fernando Santos speaks with Cristiano Ronaldo before bringing him off the bench against Switzerland. Ronaldo started the first three group-stage games but was replaced by Ramos for the round-of-16 clash.
Justin Setterfield/Getty Images
Morocco players celebrate after Achraf Hakimi scored to win a penalty shootout against Spain on December 6. The match ended 0-0 before going to the shootout.
Morocco players celebrate after Achraf Hakimi scored to win a penalty shootout against Spain on December 6. The match ended 0-0 before going to the shootout.
Wolfgang Rattay/Reuters
Morocco's Abdelhamid Sabiri scores during the penalty shootout against Spain.
Morocco's Abdelhamid Sabiri scores during the penalty shootout against Spain.
Matthew Childs/Reuters
Spain's Aymeric Laporte reacts after the loss to Morocco.
Spain's Aymeric Laporte reacts after the loss to Morocco.
Bernadett Szabo/Reuters
Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou makes a save near the end of the Spain match.
Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou makes a save near the end of the Spain match.
Richard Heathcote/Getty Images
Hakimi tries to win the ball from Spain's Dani Olmo, seen in the foreground.
Hakimi tries to win the ball from Spain's Dani Olmo, seen in the foreground.
Jack Guez/AFP/Getty Images
Richarlison, left, scores Brazil's third goal during the World Cup match against South Korea on December 5. Brazil won 4-1 to advance to the quarterfinals.
Richarlison, left, scores Brazil's third goal during the World Cup match against South Korea on December 5. Brazil won 4-1 to advance to the quarterfinals.
Manu Fernandez/AP
From left, Vinicius Junior, Raphinha, Lucas Paqueta and Neymar celebrate after one of Brazil's four first-half goals.
From left, Vinicius Junior, Raphinha, Lucas Paqueta and Neymar celebrate after one of Brazil's four first-half goals.
Manu Fernandez/AP
Mario Pasalic, right, celebrates with goalkeeper Dominik Livaković after Croatia won a penalty shootout over Japan. Livaković made three saves in the shootout after the match ended 1-1.
Mario Pasalic, right, celebrates with goalkeeper Dominik Livaković after Croatia won a penalty shootout over Japan. Livaković made three saves in the shootout after the match ended 1-1.
Frank Augstein/AP
Livaković saves the first penalty in the shootout against Japan.
Livaković saves the first penalty in the shootout against Japan.
Marko Djurica/Reuters
Croatian midfielder Lovro Majer falls near Japanese midfielder Ao Tanaka.
Croatian midfielder Lovro Majer falls near Japanese midfielder Ao Tanaka.
Andrej Isakovic/AFP/Getty Images
England players celebrate after Harry Kane scored against Senegal on December 4. England won 3-0 to advance to the quarterfinals.
England players celebrate after Harry Kane scored against Senegal on December 4. England won 3-0 to advance to the quarterfinals.
Carl Recine/Reuters
A Senegal supporter cheers before the match against England.
A Senegal supporter cheers before the match against England.
Anne-Christine Poujoulat/AFP/Getty Images
France's Olivier Giroud celebrates scoring his team's first goal against Poland on December 4. With the goal, Giroud became <em>Les Bleus</em>' all-time top goalscorer. France defeated Poland 3-1 to advance to the quarterfinals.
France's Olivier Giroud celebrates scoring his team's first goal against Poland on December 4. With the goal, Giroud became Les Bleus' all-time top goalscorer. France defeated Poland 3-1 to advance to the quarterfinals.
Kirill Kudryavtsev/AFP/Getty Images
France's Dayot Upamecano collides with Poland goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny.
France's Dayot Upamecano collides with Poland goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny.
Natacha Pisarenko/AP
Argentina's Lionel Messi, left, celebrates with teammates after opening the scoring against Australia on December 3. Argentina's 2-1 victory set up a quarterfinal match against the Netherlands.
Argentina's Lionel Messi, left, celebrates with teammates after opening the scoring against Australia on December 3. Argentina's 2-1 victory set up a quarterfinal match against the Netherlands.
Hector Vivas/FIFA/Getty Images
Australian fans in Sydney celebrate their team's goal against Argentina on December 3.
Australian fans in Sydney celebrate their team's goal against Argentina on December 3.
Loren Elliott/Reuters
US captain Tyler Adams sinks to the ground after the Americans lost 3-1 to the Netherlands on December 3.
US captain Tyler Adams sinks to the ground after the Americans lost 3-1 to the Netherlands on December 3.
Dan Mullan/Getty Images
The United States' Brenden Aaronson, left, and the Netherlands' Frenkie de Jong battle for the ball on November 3.
The United States' Brenden Aaronson, left, and the Netherlands' Frenkie de Jong battle for the ball on November 3.
Elsa/Getty Images
Switzerland's Remo Freuler, right, celebrates with Ricardo Rodriguez after scoring the third and decisive goal in the 3-2 victory over Serbia on December 2. With the win, Switzerland advanced to the next stage of the World Cup.
Switzerland's Remo Freuler, right, celebrates with Ricardo Rodriguez after scoring the third and decisive goal in the 3-2 victory over Serbia on December 2. With the win, Switzerland advanced to the next stage of the World Cup.
Suhaib Salem/Reuters
Players argue during the Serbia-Switzerland match. Serbia was eliminated with the loss.
Players argue during the Serbia-Switzerland match. Serbia was eliminated with the loss.
Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images
Switzerland's Manuel Akanji heads the ball during the Serbia match.
Switzerland's Manuel Akanji heads the ball during the Serbia match.
Carl Recine/Reuters
Dušan Vlahović scores Serbia's second goal on December 2.
Dušan Vlahović scores Serbia's second goal on December 2.
Suhaib Salem/Reuters
Bremer heads the ball for Brazil during the match against Cameroon on December 2. Cameroon came out on top 1-0, but Brazil still won Group G thanks to two earlier victories.
Bremer heads the ball for Brazil during the match against Cameroon on December 2. Cameroon came out on top 1-0, but Brazil still won Group G thanks to two earlier victories.
Amanda Perobelli/Reuters
Bremer controls the ball against Cameroon.
Bremer controls the ball against Cameroon.
Moises Castillo/AP
Cameroon's Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting tries to bring the ball down between Fabinho and Éder Militão.
Cameroon's Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting tries to bring the ball down between Fabinho and Éder Militão.
Amanda Perobelli/Reuters
South Korea's Hwang Hee-chan celebrates December 2 after his team's 2-1 victory over Portugal clinched a spot in the next round. Hwang scored the game-winning goal in second-half stoppage time.
South Korea's Hwang Hee-chan celebrates December 2 after his team's 2-1 victory over Portugal clinched a spot in the next round. Hwang scored the game-winning goal in second-half stoppage time.
Stuart Franklin/Getty Images
South Korea's Son Heung-min slides for a tackle against Portugal's João Mário. Portugal lost the match but still won Group H.
South Korea's Son Heung-min slides for a tackle against Portugal's João Mário. Portugal lost the match but still won Group H.
Glyn Kirk/AFP/Getty Images
Portugal's Ruben Neves, left, heads the ball against South Korea.
Portugal's Ruben Neves, left, heads the ball against South Korea.
Patricia de Melo Moreira/AFP/Getty Images
Uruguay's Giorgian de Arrascaeta scores his second goal in the 2-0 victory over Ghana on December 2. Uruguay finished Group H with the same amount of points as South Korea, but the South Koreans advanced because they scored more goals in the group.
Uruguay's Giorgian de Arrascaeta scores his second goal in the 2-0 victory over Ghana on December 2. Uruguay finished Group H with the same amount of points as South Korea, but the South Koreans advanced because they scored more goals in the group.
Ashley Landis/AP
Uruguay's Luis Suarez, foreground, looks to head the ball against Ghana.
Uruguay's Luis Suarez, foreground, looks to head the ball against Ghana.
Siphiwe Sibeko/Reuters
Ghana's Inaki Williams leaps for a kick against Uruguay.
Ghana's Inaki Williams leaps for a kick against Uruguay.
Serhat Cagdas/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images
Japan's Kaoru Mitoma passes the ball near the goal line, leading to a goal <a href="https://www.cnn.com/sport/live-news/world-cup-2022-12-01-2022/h_e4ab2ec63f6820b9a3c4924c34bc0f36" target="_blank">that was upheld by a video assistant referee (VAR) review</a> during the match against Spain on December 1. Japan took a 2-1 lead and held on to win by that score. It finished first in Group E while Spain finished second.
Japan's Kaoru Mitoma passes the ball near the goal line, leading to a goal that was upheld by a video assistant referee (VAR) review during the match against Spain on December 1. Japan took a 2-1 lead and held on to win by that score. It finished first in Group E while Spain finished second.
Petr David Josek/AP
Wataru Endo celebrates with teammates after Japan's victory.
Wataru Endo celebrates with teammates after Japan's victory.
Kim Hong-Ji/Reuters
Spain's Alejandro Balde tries to hold up Japan's Ritsu Doan.
Spain's Alejandro Balde tries to hold up Japan's Ritsu Doan.
Ryan Pierse/Getty Images
Germany's Thomas Müller hugs Antonio Rüdiger after their 4-2 win over Costa Rica on December 1. Despite the win, Germany was eliminated from the tournament because Japan defeated Spain.
Germany's Thomas Müller hugs Antonio Rüdiger after their 4-2 win over Costa Rica on December 1. Despite the win, Germany was eliminated from the tournament because Japan defeated Spain.
Thaier Al-Sudani/Reuters
German goalkeeper Manuel Neuer punches a ball clear against Costa Rica.
German goalkeeper Manuel Neuer punches a ball clear against Costa Rica.
Ariel Schalit/AP
Referee Stephanie Frappart, center, warms up with assistant referees Karen Diaz, left, and Neuza Back before the Germany-Costa Rica match. <a href="https://www.cnn.com/sport/live-news/world-cup-2022-12-01-2022/h_9e54a9b7b64fac9df31c09b2f48fcc93" target="_blank">They made history</a> as the first all-female refereeing crew for a men's World Cup match. Frappert became the first woman to referee a men's World Cup match.
Referee Stephanie Frappart, center, warms up with assistant referees Karen Diaz, left, and Neuza Back before the Germany-Costa Rica match. They made history as the first all-female refereeing crew for a men's World Cup match. Frappert became the first woman to referee a men's World Cup match.
Matthew Childs/Reuters
Belgium players react after their 0-0 draw against Croatia meant that they would be eliminated on December 1. Belgium finished third at the last World Cup in 2018.
Belgium players react after their 0-0 draw against Croatia meant that they would be eliminated on December 1. Belgium finished third at the last World Cup in 2018.
Thanassis Stavrakis/AP
Belgium's Leandro Trossard, left, and Croatia's Josko Gvardiol compete for a ball. Croatia finished second in Group F to advance to the tournament's knockout stage.
Belgium's Leandro Trossard, left, and Croatia's Josko Gvardiol compete for a ball. Croatia finished second in Group F to advance to the tournament's knockout stage.
Luca Bruno/AP
Croatia's Borna Sosa heads the ball near Belgium's Thomas Meunier.
Croatia's Borna Sosa heads the ball near Belgium's Thomas Meunier.
Thanassis Stavrakis/AP
A Belgium supporter looks dejected after the match against Croatia.
A Belgium supporter looks dejected after the match against Croatia.
Stephane Mahe/Reuters
Morocco head coach Walid Regragui is lifted into the air by his team after a 2-1 victory over Canada on December 1. Morocco finished first in Group F.
Morocco head coach Walid Regragui is lifted into the air by his team after a 2-1 victory over Canada on December 1. Morocco finished first in Group F.
Catherine Ivill/Getty Images
Canada's Alistair Johnston tries to head the ball into Morocco's net on December 1.
Canada's Alistair Johnston tries to head the ball into Morocco's net on December 1.
Matthias Hangst/Getty Images
Youssef En-Nesyri celebrates after scoring Morocco's second goal against Canada.
Youssef En-Nesyri celebrates after scoring Morocco's second goal against Canada.
Carl Recine/Reuters
Argentina's Julian Alvarez is put in a headlock by teammate Enzo Fernandez after scoring against Poland on November 30. Argentina won 2-0 to finish first in Group C and advance to the knockout stage. Poland qualified as well despite the loss.
Argentina's Julian Alvarez is put in a headlock by teammate Enzo Fernandez after scoring against Poland on November 30. Argentina won 2-0 to finish first in Group C and advance to the knockout stage. Poland qualified as well despite the loss.
Natacha Pisarenko/AP
Argentina star Lionel Messi is hit in the face by Poland's Wojciech Szczesny in the first half November 30. A penalty was given after video review, but Szczesny saved Messi's shot.
Argentina star Lionel Messi is hit in the face by Poland's Wojciech Szczesny in the first half November 30. A penalty was given after video review, but Szczesny saved Messi's shot.
Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images
Messi and Poland's Bartosz Bereszynski compete for the ball.
Messi and Poland's Bartosz Bereszynski compete for the ball.
Guiseppe Cacace/AFP/Getty Images
Mexico's Orbelín Pineda, left, and Saudi Arabia's Mohamed Kanno go for a header during their match on November 30. Mexico won 2-1.
Mexico's Orbelín Pineda, left, and Saudi Arabia's Mohamed Kanno go for a header during their match on November 30. Mexico won 2-1.
Moises Castillo/AP
Mexico's Henry Martín scores the first goal against Saudi Arabia.
Mexico's Henry Martín scores the first goal against Saudi Arabia.
Matthew Childs/Reuters
A fan wears La Catrina-style makeup at the start of the Mexico-Saudi Arabia match.
A fan wears La Catrina-style makeup at the start of the Mexico-Saudi Arabia match.
Ricardo Mazalan/AP
Australia's Mathew Leckie, left, celebrates after scoring the only goal in the 1-0 win over Denmark on November 30. The win advanced the "Socceroos" to the knockout stage.
Australia's Mathew Leckie, left, celebrates after scoring the only goal in the 1-0 win over Denmark on November 30. The win advanced the "Socceroos" to the knockout stage.
Francisco Seco/AP
A Denmark supporter reacts to Australia's goal on November 30.
A Denmark supporter reacts to Australia's goal on November 30.
Robbie Jay Barratt/AMA/Getty Images
Australia's Riley McGree shields the ball from Denmark's Mikkel Damsgaard.
Australia's Riley McGree shields the ball from Denmark's Mikkel Damsgaard.
Wolfgang Rattay/Reuters
Tunisian players mob teammate Wahbi Khazri after his goal against France on November 30. Tunisia won 1-0, but it was not enough to advance to the knockout stage. France still won Group D.
Tunisian players mob teammate Wahbi Khazri after his goal against France on November 30. Tunisia won 1-0, but it was not enough to advance to the knockout stage. France still won Group D.
Ian MacNicol/Getty Images
Tunisia's Issam Jebali heads the ball next to France's Aurélien Tchouaméni.
Tunisia's Issam Jebali heads the ball next to France's Aurélien Tchouaméni.
Christophe Ena/AP
American star Christian Pulisic scores the only goal in the match against Iran on November 29. With the victory, the United States advanced to the tournament's knockout stage.
American star Christian Pulisic scores the only goal in the match against Iran on November 29. With the victory, the United States advanced to the tournament's knockout stage.
Yukihito Taguchi/USA Today Sports/Reuters
Iran's Ramin Rezaeian heads the ball during the match against the United States.
Iran's Ramin Rezaeian heads the ball during the match against the United States.
Kai Pfaffenbach/Reuters
Shaq Moore slides in for a tackle against Iran's Abolfazl Jalali.
Shaq Moore slides in for a tackle against Iran's Abolfazl Jalali.
Manu Fernandez/AP
England's Phil Foden celebrates after scoring his team's second goal in the 3-0 win over Wales on November 29. England won Group B.
England's Phil Foden celebrates after scoring his team's second goal in the 3-0 win over Wales on November 29. England won Group B.
Markus Gilliar/GES Sportfoto/Getty Images
Marcus Rashford scores England's third goal against Wales. He had two goals in the match.
Marcus Rashford scores England's third goal against Wales. He had two goals in the match.
Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images
Rashford's free kick whizzes by Wales' Danny Ward for England's first goal.
Rashford's free kick whizzes by Wales' Danny Ward for England's first goal.
Hannah McKay/Pool/Getty Images
Wales' Connor Roberts stretches for a ball during the match against England.
Wales' Connor Roberts stretches for a ball during the match against England.
Abbie Parr/AP
Senegal's Ismaila Sarr celebrates after a 2-1 win over Ecuador secured his team's spot in the knockout round of the World Cup.
Senegal's Ismaila Sarr celebrates after a 2-1 win over Ecuador secured his team's spot in the knockout round of the World Cup.
Dylan Martinez/Reuters
Senegal's Ismail Jakobs, left, tries to fend off Ecuador's Enner Valencia on November 29.
Senegal's Ismail Jakobs, left, tries to fend off Ecuador's Enner Valencia on November 29.
Stephane Mahe/Reuters
The Netherlands' Frenkie de Jong scores his team's second goal in the 2-0 victory over Qatar on November 29. The Dutch won Group A. Qatar, the host nation, lost all three of its games.
The Netherlands' Frenkie de Jong scores his team's second goal in the 2-0 victory over Qatar on November 29. The Dutch won Group A. Qatar, the host nation, lost all three of its games.
Julian Finney/Getty Images
Qatar's Homam Ahmed leaps near the Netherlands' Denzel Dumfries on November 29.
Qatar's Homam Ahmed leaps near the Netherlands' Denzel Dumfries on November 29.
Alberto Lingria/Reuters
Portugal's Bruno Fernandes celebrates after scoring his second goal in the 2-0 victory over Uruguay on November 28. The win clinched Portugal's spot in the knockout stage.
Portugal's Bruno Fernandes celebrates after scoring his second goal in the 2-0 victory over Uruguay on November 28. The win clinched Portugal's spot in the knockout stage.
Jose Breton/Pics Action/NurPhoto via Getty Images
A man <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2022/11/28/football/pitch-invader-rainbow-flag-2022-world-cup-spt-intl/index.html" target="_blank">runs onto the field with a rainbow flag</a> during the match between Portugal and Uruguay. The man, an Italian named Mario Ferri, was also wearing a shirt that said "save Ukraine" on the front and "respect for Iranian women" on the back. In a series of posts of his Instagram story, Ferri called himself the "new Robin Hood" and said, "Breaking the rules if you do it for a good cause is NEVER A CRIME." He was banned from attending future matches.
A man runs onto the field with a rainbow flag during the match between Portugal and Uruguay. The man, an Italian named Mario Ferri, was also wearing a shirt that said "save Ukraine" on the front and "respect for Iranian women" on the back. In a series of posts of his Instagram story, Ferri called himself the "new Robin Hood" and said, "Breaking the rules if you do it for a good cause is NEVER A CRIME." He was banned from attending future matches.
Abbie Parr/AP
Portugal forward Cristiano Ronaldo tries to head the ball toward goal in the second half of the Uruguay match. He appeared at first to nod in the first goal, but after review it was determined that he didn't touch it and Bruno was credited with the goal.
Portugal forward Cristiano Ronaldo tries to head the ball toward goal in the second half of the Uruguay match. He appeared at first to nod in the first goal, but after review it was determined that he didn't touch it and Bruno was credited with the goal.
Kirill Kudryavtsev/AFP/Getty Images
Portugal's Bernardo Silva, left, tries to keep the ball from Uruguay's Mathias Olivera.
Portugal's Bernardo Silva, left, tries to keep the ball from Uruguay's Mathias Olivera.
Kirill Kudryavtsev/AFP/Getty Images
Brazil's Vinícius Júnior performs a rabona during his team's 1-0 victory over Switzerland on November 28. The Brazilians' win ensured that they would be advancing from their group.
Brazil's Vinícius Júnior performs a rabona during his team's 1-0 victory over Switzerland on November 28. The Brazilians' win ensured that they would be advancing from their group.
Clive Brunskill/Getty Images
Brazilian midfielder Casemiro, front left, is mobbed by teammates after scoring against Switzerland.
Brazilian midfielder Casemiro, front left, is mobbed by teammates after scoring against Switzerland.
Carl Recine/Reuters
Ghana midfielder Mohammed Kudus celebrates a goal during the match against South Korea on November 28. It was his second goal of the day, and it was the difference in Ghana's 3-2 victory.
Ghana midfielder Mohammed Kudus celebrates a goal during the match against South Korea on November 28. It was his second goal of the day, and it was the difference in Ghana's 3-2 victory.
Jung Yeon-je/AFP/Getty Images
South Korea's Kim Min-jae, left, and Ghana's Andre Ayew, center, jump for a header during their match on November 28.
South Korea's Kim Min-jae, left, and Ghana's Andre Ayew, center, jump for a header during their match on November 28.
Lee Jin-man/AP
Ghana supporters celebrate victory on November 28.
Ghana supporters celebrate victory on November 28.
Jose Breton/Pics Action/NurPhoto via Getty Images
Serbia's Sergej Milinković-Savić celebrates a goal during a 3-3 draw with Cameroon on November 28.
Serbia's Sergej Milinković-Savić celebrates a goal during a 3-3 draw with Cameroon on November 28.
Anthony Dibon/Icon Sport/Getty Images
Cameroon forward Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting scores his team's third goal against Serbia, tying the match in the second half.
Cameroon forward Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting scores his team's third goal against Serbia, tying the match in the second half.
Jewel Samad/AFP/Getty Images
Fans of Spain attend the team's match against Germany on November 27. The match ended in a 1-1 draw.
Fans of Spain attend the team's match against Germany on November 27. The match ended in a 1-1 draw.
Paul Chesterton/Sipa/AP
Belgium's Thorgan Hazard, left, and Morocco's Selim Amallah compete for the ball on November 27. Morocco defeated Belgium 2-0. It was Morocco's first World Cup win since 1998 — and its third-ever at the tournament.
Belgium's Thorgan Hazard, left, and Morocco's Selim Amallah compete for the ball on November 27. Morocco defeated Belgium 2-0. It was Morocco's first World Cup win since 1998 — and its third-ever at the tournament.
Mustafa Yalcin/Anadolu Agency/Getty Images
Alphonso Davies celebrates after scoring Canada's first-ever World Cup goal on November 27. The goal against Croatia came 68 seconds after kickoff and was the fastest at the 2022 tournament so far. But despite the early lead, Canada lost 4-1.
Alphonso Davies celebrates after scoring Canada's first-ever World Cup goal on November 27. The goal against Croatia came 68 seconds after kickoff and was the fastest at the 2022 tournament so far. But despite the early lead, Canada lost 4-1.
Yukihito Taguchi/USA Today Sports/Reuters
Costa Rica's Yeltsin Tejeda and Keysher Fuller celebrate their 1-0 win over Japan on November 27. Fuller scored the winning goal.
Costa Rica's Yeltsin Tejeda and Keysher Fuller celebrate their 1-0 win over Japan on November 27. Fuller scored the winning goal.
Issei Kato/Reuters
Kylian Mbappé scores his second goal on November 26, leading France to a 2-1 victory over Denmark. The win ensured that France, the tournament's defending champions, would be the first team to qualify for the knockout stage.
Kylian Mbappé scores his second goal on November 26, leading France to a 2-1 victory over Denmark. The win ensured that France, the tournament's defending champions, would be the first team to qualify for the knockout stage.
Mohammad Karamali/DeFodi Images/Getty Images
Argentina's Lionel Messi celebrates scoring the opening goal against Mexico on November 26. Argentina went on to win the match 2-0.
Argentina's Lionel Messi celebrates scoring the opening goal against Mexico on November 26. Argentina went on to win the match 2-0.
Kirill Kudryavtsev/AFP/Getty Images
Fans in Doha, Qatar, watch the match between Poland and Saudi Arabia on November 26.
Fans in Doha, Qatar, watch the match between Poland and Saudi Arabia on November 26.
Ibraheem Al Omari/Reuters
Robert Lewandowski celebrates after scoring Poland's second goal in the 2-0 win against Saudi Arabia on November 26. This was Lewandowski's first-ever World Cup goal.