The Fifa World Cup final does not always live up to expectations. The stakes are so high, this game of all games can be sometimes a cautious, nervous affair rather than a feast of football.
But Sunday’s epic clash between Argentina and France did not disappoint. It was full of drama, excitement and footballing brilliance, the perfect climax to a thrilling competition. No wonder it is being described as the greatest final ever.
This was Lionel Messi’s competition, and Argentina’s captain sealed his status as the best player ever by lifting the famous trophy for the first time – and giving it a kiss. It was the little magician’s fifth World Cup attempt and, at 35, probably his last.
Messi’s captivating skills were decisive. He scored two goals in the 3-3 draw and an audacious penalty in the subsequent shoot-out. This was the result most fans wanted. Messi has finally topped his glittering career with the ultimate prize, in the first World Cup since the death of Argentinian great Diego Maradona. But France came so close.
After a slow start, they sprang into life late in the game. Kylian Mbappe, only 24, staked a claim to take the baton from Messi, becoming the first player since 1966 to score a hat-trick in the final. He converted twice in a pulsating 97-second period, adding a third in extra time.
The competition has brought much joy to fans around the world. Millions descended on Qatar for the tournament. More than a billion watched the final on television, and they have enjoyed the unexpected success of unfancied teams, notably Morocco, who became the first African nation to reach the semi-finals.
But it has also been the most controversial World Cup, because of the choice of Qatar as host.
Concern about corruption scandals and human rights violations involving the wealthy Arab state have not diminished.
It must not be forgotten, amid the final celebrations, that thousands of poorly paid, badly treated migrant workers, mostly from Asia and Africa, are believed to have died building the stadiums and other infrastructure needed for the competition. Their families deserve compensation.
The organisers promised the event would have “a transformative impact on improving lives”. Let us hope that is the legacy of this great sporting spectacle. It has, at least, raised awareness of the rights of workers, women, and the LGBTQ community.
The World Cup brought people of different cultures and nationalities together. It provided a welcome distraction from geopolitical tensions and the troubles of everyday life. Sport can do that.
The endeavour, commitment and teamwork shown by the players and their determination not to give up reminds us of the ability of humankind to overcome challenges. They have been an inspiration.