Lionel Scaloni on 2022 World Cup final: 'Neither team feared losing'

In an extensive interview, Lionel Scaloni reflected on the 2022 World Cup final in Qatar, where his Argentina side clinched the title. The Argentine manager noted that the defining feature of the match against France was the lack of fear from either side, despite the immense stakes.

Scaloni detailed his tactical preparations, specifically how his staff planned to contain Kylian Mbappé. The plan involved ensuring Nahuel Molina and Rodrigo De Paul were always positioned to double-team the French star to prevent one-on-one situations.

In this final, neither team feared losing, even though that fear is very common in modern football. We played with determination, without being weighed down by the occasion. Lionel Scaloni

The manager also shared an intimate moment from before the match, admitting he was overcome with emotion during his pre-game team talk. Regarding the match itself, Scaloni confessed that even with a 2-0 lead, he remained wary of the French team's ability to turn the tide in an instant.

Reflecting on the penalty shootout, Scaloni praised the psychological impact of Emiliano Martínez, whose confidence and presence were vital. For Scaloni, the victory was the culmination of a long journey and a moment of pure satisfaction to see Lionel Messi finally lift the trophy.