Futbol, THE World Game, has an amazing ability for matches to never be won, until they are. This match looked for all watching to be won by Argentina 2-0. Nope.
Deep into the second half, the second penalty for the match is awarded to France. The first score for Kylian Mbapee, who duly drove the ball past the fleeting grasp of Argentinian keeper Emiliano Martinez. 2-1.
France In the Hunt
France, who mere moments ago down and out, were in the hunt. And hunt they did. Players interchanged before this moment hit their straps. Setting Mbapee, once more, to shoot brilliantly to level the game two goals a piece. 2-2.
Mbapee’s only goal in play was a delight to behold. Most volleys are a delight. To achieve best contact is tricky. Try doing so askew on an angle in the air. Oh yes and gain enough purchase to beat the goal keeper too. Truly delicious.
For much of this match Mbapee was absent and unable to force himself on the game. Argentina were very much in control. Wave after wave of decisive touches and interceptions led to passes which threatened the French goals. With two goals a piece attempts were made by both sides. Then time ran out.
But Wait There’s Extra Time
Extra time? Two fifteen minute halves. Time to score and lead once more. With Messi delivering once again for his nation. A desperate push up the field from France intercepted. On the turn over the ball is passed skilfully between players. Shot forcefully at the keeper who deflects the ball in the path of Lionel Messi. In vain defenders are unable to stop the ball crossing the goal line. 3-2.
Once again minutes pass with Argentina foiled by their own aggression at the ball. This time a handball in the 18 yard box. Pushing forward to block, leading with his elbow Gonzalo Montiel struck the ball. Deliberate or not the referee correctly points at the penalty spot again.
Mbapee delivers again. Scores level. Time runs out. Four weeks of Futbol with 32 teams playing, till only two teams remain. Then, after over 120 minutes of play they are still deadlocked. It is time for a penalty shootout. There is no other way.
The Dreaded Penalty Shootout
Some do not watch penalty shootouts. There are those who would mock futbol’s final last resort to decide a game. It is the game reduced to its basic elements. Ball, goals, keeper, striker. It is all about nerves, timing and in some cases being a flog.
Flog, a person showing poor sportsmanship. To Flog, an overt display of gamesmanship. That dark art which futbol can never leave behind. Australia felt its awful stench at the hands of Italy. In this game both teams displayed it throughout. Which is to be expected. However, we should call it out when we see it.
As Martin Tyler, commentator for SBS mentioned, there is a distinct difference between the two keepers. French keeper Hugo Lloris looks like your favourite Geography teacher. Where as Emiliano Martinez has a large personality and the size to match. Mbabpee and Messi began proceedings successfully. 1-1. It was down hill for the French from there.
Martinez blocked the second from Kingsley Coman. Paulo Dybala shot straight while Lloris went left. 1-2. Aurélien Tchouaméni missed. Leandro Paredes also converted while Lloris guessed wrongly. 1-3. Kolo Muani struck truly. 2-3. Leaving, he of the leading elbow, Gonzalo Montiel to win the game. Which he did. 2-4.
Destiny Achieved, But What?
With Destiny achieved Messi won player of the series. Martinez won best keeper and Mbapee won the Golden boot for most goals in the tournament. Perhaps the best moment of a long and drawn out awards ceremony came from Lionel Messi.
After accepting his player of the series award he passed the World Cup trophy and kissed it like the holy grail it is. It was a deserved crowing moment for a well deserving player. Meanwhile in Australian futbol violence once again erupts. Yep, Futbol. Beautiful moments, interrupted only by flogs and violence.
Phillip Hall has been too long in Melbourne to see AFL in the same light as those back in Fremantle. East Fremantle born and bred, he would love to see the Dockers back in the eight. But would settle for just beating West Coast twice a year.
