Hey guys! Let's dive deep into the epic Argentina vs. France 2022 World Cup final. I'm going to break down the player ratings and give you a detailed match analysis. This was one for the ages, and we need to dissect it properly. Prepare for a rollercoaster of opinions and insights!

Argentina Player Ratings

Let's start with the champions! Argentina brought their A-game, and the ratings reflect their incredible performance.

Emiliano Martínez - 9/10

Emiliano Martínez, aka 'Dibu,' was an absolute beast in goal. His saves in extra time were crucial, and his penalty shootout heroics sealed Argentina's victory. His confidence and presence intimidated the French players, and he truly earned his high rating. Martinez wasn't just a shot-stopper; he was a leader, a motivator, and a complete showman. His antics might ruffle some feathers, but there's no denying his impact on Argentina's success. Many argue that without his crucial saves, Argentina might not have even made it to penalties, let alone win the shootout. His distribution was also on point, launching quick counter-attacks and keeping the French defense on their toes. It's performances like these that cement goalkeepers as legends in their own right.

Nahuel Molina - 6.5/10

Nahuel Molina had a decent game, providing width and support on the right flank. While he wasn't spectacular, he was solid defensively and contributed to Argentina's overall structure. Molina's work rate was commendable, constantly tracking back and making important tackles. However, he sometimes struggled against the pace of Kylian Mbappé, and his attacking output could have been better. Still, he played his part in a historic victory. He showed glimpses of his potential, particularly in the first half, but needs to refine his decision-making in the final third. Defensively, he held his own for the most part, but the constant threat of Mbappé kept him on high alert throughout the match. Overall, a respectable performance from the young right-back.

Cristian Romero - 7.5/10

Cristian Romero was a rock in the heart of Argentina's defense. His aggressive tackling and no-nonsense approach stifled many of France's attacks. Romero's partnership with Otamendi was vital in keeping the French forwards at bay for much of the game. He demonstrated why he's considered one of the best defenders in the world. Romero's anticipation and reading of the game were exceptional, allowing him to intercept passes and break up plays effectively. His physical presence was also a major asset, dominating in aerial duels and bullying the French attackers. While he did give away a penalty, his overall performance was outstanding, and he played a significant role in Argentina's defensive solidity. He really put his body on the line for his country.

Nicolás Otamendi - 7/10

Nicolás Otamendi, despite a few shaky moments, put in a brave performance. He showed his experience and leadership, organizing the defense and making crucial clearances. While he conceded a penalty, his overall contribution was positive. Otamendi's experience was evident in his positioning and awareness. He was always there to cover for his teammates and make vital interceptions. However, his lack of pace was exposed at times, and he struggled against the speed of the French attackers. Nevertheless, he battled hard and played a key role in Argentina's defensive effort. He is a true warrior and gave it his all for his team, even when under immense pressure. His passion and determination were infectious, inspiring his teammates to fight until the very end.

Nicolás Tagliafico - 6/10

Nicolás Tagliafico had a relatively quiet game. He was defensively sound but didn't offer much going forward. His main task was to contain Dembélé, and he did a decent job overall. Tagliafico stuck to his defensive duties, prioritizing his team's shape and preventing France from exploiting the left flank. He didn't venture forward much, focusing instead on maintaining a solid defensive line. While he wasn't the most eye-catching performer, he played his part in Argentina's victory, doing the simple things well and contributing to the team's overall balance. He kept things tidy and provided a reliable outlet for his teammates when they were under pressure.

Rodrigo De Paul - 7/10

Rodrigo De Paul brought his usual energy and tenacity to the midfield. He worked tirelessly, pressing the French players and winning back possession. De Paul's relentless running and combative spirit were crucial in disrupting France's rhythm. He was a constant thorn in the side of the French midfielders, never giving them a moment's peace. While his passing wasn't always accurate, his overall contribution was significant. He helped set the tone for Argentina's aggressive approach and played a key role in their midfield dominance. His passion and commitment were evident in every challenge, and he left everything on the field for his country. He really wore his heart on his sleeve.

Enzo Fernández - 7.5/10

Enzo Fernández continued his impressive World Cup form, dictating the tempo of the game from midfield. His passing range and vision were exceptional, and he was always looking to create opportunities for his teammates. Fernández's composure and maturity belied his young age. He controlled the midfield with authority, spraying passes all over the pitch and dictating the flow of the game. His defensive work was also impressive, tracking back and making important tackles. He is undoubtedly a star in the making. His performance was a masterclass in midfield control, and he showcased his immense potential on the biggest stage. The future is bright for this young talent.

Alexis Mac Allister - 7/10

Alexis Mac Allister put in another solid performance, linking the midfield and attack effectively. His clever movement and passing created space for Messi and Di María. Mac Allister's intelligence and tactical awareness were crucial in Argentina's attacking play. He made intelligent runs, found pockets of space, and linked up well with his teammates. While he didn't grab any headlines, his contribution was vital in creating opportunities for Argentina's forwards. He is a valuable asset to the team. His understated brilliance was a key component of Argentina's success, and he consistently made the right decisions in possession.

Ángel Di María - 8.5/10

Ángel Di María was a constant threat down the left wing, terrorizing the French defense with his pace and trickery. He won the penalty for Argentina's first goal and scored a beautiful goal himself. Di María's performance was a testament to his skill and determination. He was a constant menace to the French defense, running at them with pace and causing them all sorts of problems. His goal was a moment of pure brilliance. He showed why he's considered one of the best wingers in the world. He turned back the clock and delivered a vintage performance, reminding everyone of his immense talent.

Lionel Messi - 9.5/10

Lionel Messi, what can you say? He scored two goals, converted his penalty in the shootout, and led Argentina to World Cup glory. His performance was simply magical, and he finally achieved his lifelong dream. Messi's brilliance was on full display throughout the match. He orchestrated Argentina's attacks, created chances for his teammates, and scored crucial goals. His penalty in the shootout was ice-cold. He cemented his status as the greatest of all time. This World Cup victory was the crowning achievement of his illustrious career. It's hard to put into words just how much this meant to him and to the entire nation of Argentina. He is a true legend.

Julián Álvarez - 6.5/10

Julián Álvarez worked hard up front, pressing the French defense and making intelligent runs. While he didn't score, his work rate and commitment were valuable to the team. Álvarez's energy and enthusiasm were infectious. He chased down every ball, harassed the French defenders, and created space for his teammates. While he didn't have many clear-cut chances, his contribution was still significant. He is a promising young striker. He showed glimpses of his potential and proved that he can perform on the biggest stage. The future is bright for this talented young player.

France Player Ratings

Now let's move on to the French side. Despite losing, some players stood out, while others had a game to forget.

Hugo Lloris - 6/10

Hugo Lloris couldn't keep out Argentina, even in the shootout. Lloris had a difficult game, conceding three goals and failing to save any penalties in the shootout. While he made a few decent saves, his overall performance was below par. He is a seasoned veteran. He has generally been a reliable presence in goal for France, but he was unable to replicate his past heroics in this crucial match. He'll be disappointed with his performance. Maybe his age is catching up with him.

Jules Koundé - 5.5/10

Jules Koundé struggled to contain Di María and offered little going forward. He was constantly exposed by Argentina's attacking play. Koundé had a tough time against the pace and trickery of Di María. He struggled to contain him defensively and didn't offer much support in attack. He was a weak link in the French defense. He needs to improve his positional awareness and decision-making. This game will be a valuable learning experience for him.

Raphaël Varane - 6.5/10

Raphaël Varane, despite being ill, put in a decent performance. He made some important tackles and interceptions, but he couldn't prevent Argentina from scoring. Varane battled bravely despite not being at 100%. He showed his experience and leadership, organizing the defense and making crucial clearances. However, he was ultimately unable to prevent Argentina from breaching the French backline. His illness clearly affected his performance. Hopefully, he can recover quickly.

Dayot Upamecano - 5/10

Dayot Upamecano had a difficult game, struggling to cope with Argentina's attacking threat. He was often caught out of position and made several errors. Upamecano looked shaky and uncomfortable throughout the match. He struggled to deal with the pace and movement of the Argentine forwards. He needs to improve his concentration and decision-making. He is still young and has plenty of time to develop.

Theo Hernandez - 5/10

Theo Hernandez struggled defensively and didn't offer much going forward before being subbed off. He was replaced at halftime. Hernandez had a disappointing first half, struggling to contain Argentina's attacks down the left flank. He was also unable to provide much support in attack. He was rightly substituted at halftime. He needs to work on his defensive positioning and awareness. This was a game to forget for him.

Aurélien Tchouaméni - 6/10

Aurélien Tchouaméni had a mixed game. He made some good tackles and interceptions but also gave away a penalty. Tchouaméni showed glimpses of his potential but also made a costly error. He needs to learn from this experience. He is a promising young midfielder with a bright future. He needs to improve his decision-making under pressure. He has the potential to become a world-class player.

Adrien Rabiot - 6.5/10

Adrien Rabiot worked hard in midfield, but he couldn't prevent Argentina from dominating possession. Rabiot put in a decent shift, but he was ultimately unable to stem the tide of Argentina's midfield dominance. He battled hard and won some important tackles. He needs more support from his teammates. He is a valuable asset to the French team. He showed his experience and resilience.

Ousmane Dembélé - 4/10

Ousmane Dembélé had a disastrous game, giving away a penalty and offering little in attack before being subbed off. Dembélé had a game to forget. He was a liability on the pitch. He needs to improve his decision-making and composure. He has the talent but needs to work on his consistency. He will be disappointed with his performance. He needs to bounce back stronger.

Antoine Griezmann - 5.5/10

Antoine Griezmann was largely anonymous before being subbed off. He failed to make an impact on the game. Griezmann was a shadow of his former self. He struggled to find space and create opportunities. He was rightly substituted. He needs to rediscover his form. He is a key player for France. He needs to step up in future matches.

Kylian Mbappé - 9/10

Kylian Mbappé scored a hat-trick, including two penalties, and almost single-handedly dragged France back into the game. His performance was electrifying. Mbappé was simply sensational. He was a constant threat to the Argentine defense. He showed his incredible pace, skill, and finishing ability. He is a true superstar. He almost pulled off the impossible. He is a player who can change a game in an instant.

Olivier Giroud - 5/10

Olivier Giroud was largely ineffective before being subbed off. He failed to make an impact on the game. Giroud struggled to get involved in the game. He was well-marshaled by the Argentine defense. He was substituted before halftime. He is a veteran striker. He needs to be more clinical in front of goal. This was not his best performance.

Conclusion

The Argentina vs. France 2022 World Cup final was a classic. Argentina emerged victorious thanks to a combination of Messi's brilliance, Di María's dynamism, and Martínez's heroics. France, despite Mbappé's heroics, couldn't overcome Argentina's superior team performance. This match will be remembered for years to come!

So, what do you guys think? Do you agree with these ratings? Let me know in the comments below!