Argentina vs France: Top five players to watch out for in FIFA World Cup 2022 final

These individuals could make a difference in the most critical football match of the year.

The end of the highly entertaining FIFA World Cup 2022 is near. In the final of the tournament, Argentina will face France. Riding on Lionel Messi’s magic, the South American nation will hope to win its third World Cup trophy. On the other hand, defending champions Les Bleus will look to retain the title, a feat that has not occurred in the past 60 years. 

It is difficult to predict which players will take the center stage and make an impact in one of the most prestigious matches of the year. Having said that, there are a few standout players that possess the quality to make a difference.

Judging by the form and their key role in the team, here are five players to watch out for in the FIFA World Cup 2022 final on 18 December 2022 at the Lusail Iconic Stadium, Lusail City, Qatar:

Julian Alvarez

Julian Alvarez is one of the most exciting young talents at the World Cup 2022 who is leading Argentina’s attacking line impressively. The 22-year-old has four goals in six outings at the tournament, only behind France's Kylian Mbappe and Argentina's Lionel Messi in the race for the golden boot.

He scored a vital goal against Croatia in the semi-final that gave Argentina a huge boost. His movement and ability to finish chances can be troublesome for France. While the attention will be on Messi, Alvarez could make the all-important difference.

Antoine Griezmann

Antoine Griezmann is one of the key contributors to France’s journey to the final. He is the creative force in the team, who can conjure up magic out of difficult situations. The 31-year-old has three assists and one goal in the competition thus far.

Argentina must find a way to silence Griezmann’s threat in the final third. It is possible that the attacking midfielder could still bypass any tactic by the opposition, as he has done numerous times in the past in the process of winning the FIFA World Cup 2018 with the national team.

Hugo Lloris

Hugo Lloris is the captain of France's national team and a significant player in their lineup. The custodian is showing sensational form in the ongoing edition of the World Cup, making key saves in every contest.

The skipper played a key role in the triumph in Russia four years ago and will aim to lift the World Cup trophy once again. He has the quality to stand in between Argentina’s attack and the goal, his leadership and shot-stopping ability will be crucial for France in the final.

Kylian Mbappe

Kylian Mbappe was the star of France’s FIFA World Cup 2018 win and his sights are set to deliver the trophy once again to the fans waiting back home. He has five goals and two assists from six appearances at the 2022 edition of the World Cup, making him a strong favourite to win both the golden boot and golden ball awards. 

Frequently regarded as the best player in the world at the moment, Kylian Mbappe will hope to shine at the final. His pace, dribbling ability and finishing quality make him a dangerous opponent to come up against.

Lionel Messi

Lionel Messi is the most iconic player in the world and millions of his fans will be wishing that he ends the campaign as the world champion. It could be his final FIFA World Cup considering reports he is to retire from international football after the tournament. Despite the daunting task of facing France in the final, Argentina will be confident of their chances considering the form of their skipper.

Lionel Messi has five goals and three assists in six outings at the FIFA World Cup 2022. He will be a key player who can single-handedly decide the outcome of the final between Argentina and France. The 35-year-old will give everything to finally win the one trophy which has eluded him throughout his career.