The 2022 World Cup made a serious case for being the best tournament ever. Surprises, dramatic stories, incredible goals and the greatest player of all time won his first World Cup. A storybook ending to an incredible sporting event on the field.
The final itself is worthy of history. Argentina defeated France in an exciting game that required penalties. Kylian Mbappé, the heir apparent to greatness, scored a hat trick. Two of his goals were penalties, yes. However, the half goal of the three is a contender for the goal of the tournament. Even so, it was Lionel Messi, Mbappé’s PSG teammate who scored twice that day, who grabbed the headlines. He led Argentina to the promised land for the first time and Argentina’s third.
To be fair, other World Cups also had great stories. Brazil 2014 was fun as six knockout round games went to extra time. Brazil’s famous 7-1 defeat led to Germany’s fourth World Cup, a victory over Lionel Messi’s Argentina in the final. The 2002 World Cup also saw greatness. Ronaldo won the fifth World Cup in Brazil with a double in the final. However, that World Cup also generates debate due to the controversy surrounding some of the referees.
Then, going further back in the history of the tournament, 1986 was the show of Diego Maradona. Great goals, great performances and the Hand of God so that everything remains more up in the air.
What is the best World Cup in the history of the tournament?
Many factors and biases affect the interpretation of World Cup levels. Argentina fans would, unsurprisingly, call 1978, 1986 and 2022 the best World Cups bar none. German fans would say that 2014 holds a special place, even if it is something of a nightmare for many in Argentina.
As an American, I have fond memories of 2014. Sure, start times were very important since I didn’t have to wake up at 5 in the morning. Still, the overall energy provided by South America was a joy throughout the competition.
PHOTO: IMAGO / Chai v Laage
