The 2022 FIFA World Cup final is just around the corner, and the excitement is palpable. In the ultimate showdown, it will be France and Argentina who will vie for the prestigious title. While the French seek to defend their 2018 victory, Lionel Messi and his Argentine teammates are determined to secure their first World Cup trophy.
Both teams fought their way through tough semifinal opponents to earn their place in the final. Argentina showcased their prowess by defeating Croatia, while France triumphed over Morocco. As the losing semifinalists prepare for the third-place match on Saturday, December 17, the finalists eagerly await their clash on Sunday, December 18.
World Cup Semifinals Match Schedule
The journey to the semifinals was arduous, with eight teams vying for a coveted spot. The first two semifinalists were determined on Friday, December 9, while the remaining two secured their spots on Saturday, December 10.
World Cup Quarter Finals
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Date: Fri, Dec. 9
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Match: Croatia 1 - Brazil 1 (Croatia adv. 4-2 on pens)
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Highlights: Link
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Date: Fri, Dec. 9
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Match: Netherlands 2 - Argentina 2 (Argentina adv. 4-3 on pens)
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Highlights: Link
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Date: Sat, Dec. 10
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Match: Morocco 1 - Portugal 0
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Highlights: Link
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Date: Sat, Dec. 10
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Match: England 1 - France 2
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Highlights: Link
World Cup Semi Finals
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Date: Tue, Dec. 13
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Match: Argentina 3 - Croatia 0
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Highlights: Link
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Date: Wed, Dec. 14
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Match: France 2 - Morocco 0
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Highlights: Link
Caption: 2022 FIFA World Cup bracket December 14
Argentina 3, Croatia 0
Date: Tuesday, December 13\ Time: 2 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. GMT / 10 p.m. local in Qatar\ Stadium: Lusail Iconic Stadium (Lusail, Qatar)
Argentina's Lionel Messi once again proved to be the difference-maker as his team secured a place in the World Cup final on December 18, defeating Croatia with an impressive 3-0 victory. Messi showcased his brilliant skills, scoring all three goals against a solid Croatian defense.
Julian Alvarez, Argentina's forward, also deserves recognition. His lightning-fast sprints led to the first two goals, setting the stage for Messi to shine. Alvarez was instrumental in winning a penalty, which Messi calmly converted with precision. Shortly after, Alvarez's relentless pressure on the Croatian defenders resulted in Argentina's second goal.
Argentina's dominant performance exposed Croatia's defensive vulnerabilities, proving their tactical prowess. The team cleverly countered Croatia's midfield strength, leading to a resounding victory.
France 2, Morocco 0
Date: Wednesday, December 14\ Time: 2 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. GMT / 10 p.m. local in Qatar\ Stadium: Al Bayt Stadium (Al Khor, Qatar)
France secured their spot in the final by defeating a spirited Morocco with an early goal from Theo Hernandez and a late tap-in from Randal Kolo Muani. Despite relentless pressure from the Moroccan side, France held their ground and emerged victorious.
Morocco outplayed the French for extended periods of the match, dominating possession and creating scoring opportunities. However, their efforts went unrewarded as they failed to capitalize on their chances. Morocco's best opportunity came in the form of a bicycle kick, which unfortunately hit the post.
In the end, France's defensive resilience and clinical finishing sealed their path to the final. They showcased their championship mentality and will now face Argentina in a thrilling contest for the World Cup title.
How the Semifinals Work
The semifinals, like the previous knockout rounds, follow a single-elimination format. There must be a winner after each match, even if it means going into extra time or a penalty shootout.
If a match ends in a draw after 90 minutes of regulation, both teams will have an additional 30 minutes of extra time to determine the winner. Unlike the thrilling "golden goal" rule in the past, extra time is not sudden death. The teams will battle it out until the final whistle.
How Penalty Shootouts Work
If the teams remain deadlocked after extra time, a penalty shootout will ensue. Each team will take turns attempting to score from the penalty spot. The team with the most successful conversions after five attempts will be declared the winner. If the scores are level after five rounds, an extra round will be added until the deadlock is broken.
World Cup Semifinal History
Since the 1994 World Cup, a total of 17 different nations have secured quarterfinal slots. Europe dominates with 12 nations, while South America boasts three, Africa has one, and Asia has one surprise appearance.
Among the 2022 quarterfinalists, Morocco stands out as the only first-time semifinal participant. Their remarkable journey includes overcoming Portugal in an unexpected 1-0 victory.
Now, the stage is set for an epic showdown between France and Argentina. The world eagerly awaits the crowning of the 2022 FIFA World Cup champions.
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