Fifa World Cup 2022: Lionel Messi makes Golden Ball history in Qatar Lionel Messi won the Adidas Golden Ball for Qatar 2022, becoming the first man in history to win the prestigious trophy twice. Messi was also awarded as Budweiser’s Player of the Match. Kylian Mbappe and Luka Modric claimed the Silver and Bronze Balls on Sunday (December 18). Messi first won the Golden Ball at Brazil 2014 where he helped Argentina finish as runners-up.

Messi earns Argentina their 3rd World Cup

At Qatar 2022, “La Pulga Atomica” provided seven goals and three assists, set multiple records and helped Argentina win the trophy for the first time in 32 years. Messi earned the Tango their third World Cup after defeating France 4-2 on penalties after the most thrilling final in the history of the international championship. Argentina's leader has long dreamed of winning the FIFA World Cup his entire career. Argentina's talisman opened the night and appeared to be on his way to a comfortable victory until France rallied from a 2-0 deficit to force extra time. Argentina's lead was restored by Messi's goal, but Mbappe equalised for the second time. Messi and Mbappe both scored early in the shoot-out, but Emiliano Martinez saved from Kingsley Coman and Aurelien Tchouameni blasted wide, allowing unheralded Gonzalo Montiel to convert the game-winning penalty attempt. WAM/Expat Media

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