Football
World Cup 2022 Finals Result
Published
9 months agoon

All good things must end, and that’s the tale of the FIFA World Cup 2022 tournament. It indeed was a beautiful ending as Argentina and France gave their best performance in what could arguably be one of the most entertaining finals in the history of the World Cup. Kylian Mbappe and Lionel Messi was the name on every football fan’s lips at the end of the finals as the curtains were drawn on the tournament. Here we will look at how the finals went and how Argentina eventually won the World Cup in Lionel Messi’s era.
Match Result
The game started with a high tempo, with the Argentines dominating and retaining ball possession. France was outplayed entirely, but they maintained their shape and resisted the pressure. However, in football, there’s a limit to which you can just keep defending the ball.
Regular Time: 2-2
- In an abysmal performance and probably his worst in France’s colors, Ousmane Dembele was responsible for Argentina’s opener as he fouled the tricky Angel Di Maria in box 18. Lionel Messi stepped up to the task and sent Hugo Lloris the wrong way to give Argentina the lead.
- France just couldn’t get a break in this game. In the 36th minute, Argentina’s counter-attack, initiated by Lionel Messi, led to an Angel Di Maria goal, which meant France was down by two goals before the close of the first half. At this point, it looked like Argentina was destined to win the trophy, as France was playing without desire.
- Before the close of the half, France’s coach, Didier Deschamps, made bold decisions by taking out Olivier Giroud and Ousmane Dembele. However, Dembele’s substitution was justified as he was the worst player on the pitch. Giroud’s removal was questionable, as he was France’s second-highest scorer in the competition. Kolo Muani and Marcus Thuram replaced Dembele and Giroud.
- The second half was different, we saw a more balanced game, and France saw more of the ball and kept pushing. Yet in another audacious move, France’s coach removed Theo Hernadez and took out the under-performing Antoine Griezmann for Eduardo Camavinga to put more bodies in the midfield where they were being outplayed and Kingsley Coman for more attacking threat.
- France finally got a legitimate chance at goal when Argentina’s defender Nicolas Otamendi fouled Kolo Muani in the penalty box, and the referee pointed to the spot. 23-year-old Paris Saint Germain forward Kylian Mbappe stepped up and converted the spot kick beautifully to bring France within a goal.
- Barely a minute later, Kylian Mbappe again orchestrated a one-two play and converted a beautiful volley beyond Emiliano Martinez’s reach to put France level. This goal changed the game completely, giving the French nationals hope for a back-to-back World Cup win.
- The Argentines handled the pressure well and made some attempts at the goal at the death of the game, which was foiled by either poor finishing or a brilliant stop by the French defenders and goalkeeper. France held the fort and pushed the game to extra time.
Extra Time: 3-3
- Both teams made some changes in the first half of the extra time, and it paid off for Argentina in the 109th minute, when Lionel Messi pounced on a Lloris spillover from Lautaro Martinez’s shot to put Argentina ahead.
- The French did not allow this to dampen their feelings as they kept mounting pressure on Argentina. It finally paid off in the second half of the extra time when a penalty was awarded to France for Gonzalo Montiel blocking Kylian Mbappe’s shot with his arm.
- Kylian Mbapper converted the spot kick to make it his third of the game and consequently brought the game to level terms. Both teams made last-gasp efforts to prevent the game from going to a shootout, but it was inevitable as the game ended 3-3 at the end of the extra time.
Penalty Shootout: 4-2, Argentina Won On Penalties
- Kylian Mbappe was the first to take the spot kick, and he converted it; despite Emiliano Martinez getting his hands on it, it wasn’t enough to deny the Frenchman.
- Lionel Messi similarly scored his penalty as he tucked it in the center, while Lloris’ last-gasp effort to change direction was futile.
- Kingsley Coman was next in line for France. He attempted a low shot, which Martinez saved.
- Paulo Dybala, who barely got minutes in the tournament, was next to play the spot kick for the Argentines and converted it calmly.
- Aurelien Tchouameni missed his spot kick widely and ultimately blew the French’s hope of winning the trophy.
- Leandro Paredes scored his penalty kick for Argentina to put the Albicelestes upfront by two.
- Kolo Muani drove his kick down the middle to give France a glimpse of hope.
- Down to the deciding kick, with pressure on Lloris to make a save to give France a lifeline in the shootout, Gonzalo Montiel sent Lloris the wrong way to win the World Cup for Argentina.
The game ended 3-3 at the end of regular time and 4-2 on penalties.
Half A Goal predicted correctly that Lionel Messi would score or assist, while Kylian Mbappe was also tipped to score.
It was a beautiful scene to see Lionel Messi finally win the much-coveted trophy, which completes his career and puts him in the G.O.A.T status (Greatest Of All Times). Kylian Mbappe, who emerged as the highest goal scorer in the competition with eight goals, is the next big thing in football. Lionel Messi emerged as the player of the tournament; Emiliano Martinez won the golden glove, while Argentine midfielder Enzo Fernadez was the young player of the tournament.
Follow Half A Goal for more international football results and news!
Football
Overview for UEFA Europa League, and Conference League and Champions League group stage 2023
Published
5 days agoon
September 19, 2023
Football fans and analysts are eagerly waiting for the start of the UEFA Champions League, Europa League, and Conference League, as the excitement for the sport is at its highest. The competition will showcase top European teams, displaying their skills, determination, and passion. In this article, we will analyze the upcoming first round of Europa, Conference and Champions League group stage and make predictions using our football knowledge. It is important to note that all teams are starting from scratch, which may lead to some unexpected outcomes. Stay tuned to find out if we predict any upsets.
This article was prepared with the help of our partners Free Betting Reviews!
UEFA Europa League, Conference League, and Champions League group stage dates
Below, we have outlined the key fixtures and dates for matchday one games of the Champions League, Europa League, and Conference League that we will be discussing:
UEFA Champions League 1st round
Tuesday, 19 September
- AC Milan vs Newcastle United
- Paris Saint-Germain vs Dortmund
Wednesday, 20 September
- Real Madrid vs Union Berlin
- Bayern Munich vs Man United
Europa League group stage matchday 1
Thursday, 21 September
- Ajax vs Marseille
- West Ham vs TSC Backa Topola
- LASK vs Liverpool
UEFA Europa Conference League group stage matchday 1
Thursday, 21 September
- Club Brugge vs Besiktas
- Dinamo Zagreb vs Astana
Europa League, Conference League and Champions League group stage Round One matches preview
UEFA Champions League group stage
AC Milan vs Newcastle United
After ending a three-game losing streak with a win against Brentford, Newcastle still faces some challenges, as highlighted by their vulnerability in that match. AC Milan will be looking to avenge their recent humiliating loss to city rivals Inter Milan in Serie A. With Tomori returning to the starting lineup, Milan’s offense is expected to beat a weak Newcastle backline.
Paris Saint-Germain vs Borussia Dortmund
This match is expected to be high-scoring, with both teams boasting talented forwards. While Donyell Malen has three goals for Dortmund this season, Kylian Mbappe has seven league goals for PSG. However, PSG’s defense has been weak, securing only one clean sheet in five league games. Dortmund is coming off a 4-2 win against Freiburg.
Real Madrid vs Union Berlin
Real Madrid hasn’t been impressive this season, despite being in first position in La Liga. Union Berlin, on the other hand, started well in the Bundesliga before losing two straight games. They are likely to score, though, having scored nine goals in their first four games. We predict both teams will score.
Bayern Munich vs Manchester United
Bayern Munich is expected to comfortably defeat Manchester United, who have been struggling in the Premier League lately. Although the Bavarians come into the match off an intense 2-2 draw against Bayer Leverkusen, they are much stronger than Manchester United.
UEFA Europa League
Ajax vs Marseille
Marseille has started well in Ligue 1 this season, while Ajax has struggled in the Eredivisie. Marseille has the upper hand in this match, and the loss of a key player in Mohammed Kudus in the transfer window could weaken Ajax’s offense.
West Ham vs TSC Backa Topola
After winning the Conference League last season, West Ham has started well in the EPL this season. Although Backa Topola currently tops the Serbian League, they’ll likely be no match for West Ham, who have been scoring lots of goals lately.
LASK vs Liverpool
Liverpool have found form again and are tied for second in the Premier League. LASK is not expected to pose much of a challenge to them.
Europa Conference League
Club Brugge vs Besiktas
Club Brugge has won twice, and Besiktas once, in their previous meetings. Although Besiktas remains unbeaten in the Turkish league this season, Club Brugge is expected to win at home.
Dinamo Zagreb vs Astana
This match is expected to be a one-sided affair, with Dinamo Zagreb having easily defeated Astana in the Champions League qualifiers. Dinamo should score more than two goals.
In conclusion, the opening round of UEFA Champions League, Europa League, and Conference League fixtures promises to be action-packed and exciting. Fans around the world are eagerly anticipating the mouth-watering clashes between some of Europe’s biggest football clubs, and the matches are sure to offer plenty of drama and excitement. With so much at stake in these early rounds, every team will be giving it their all, and we look forward to seeing some thrilling football over the coming weeks and months.
Football
Italian Serie A upcoming matches overview: September 2023
Published
5 days agoon
September 19, 2023
Following the international break, domestic football has resumed in Italy, igniting a renewed passion for the sport. Fans of the Italian Serie A can expect an electrifying September 2023 as top-flight clubs gear up to compete on the revered pitch. As the season progresses, there is a palpable sense of excitement for upcoming matches, and the football community is abuzz with anticipation. This piece will delve into soccer predictions, offering analysis, insights, and forecasts for Serie A upcoming matches slated for September 2023. Prepare to explore the world of football and uncover what’s in store for some of Italy’s most renowned clubs.
This article was prepared with the help of our partners Free Betting Reviews!
Top Serie A upcoming matches
AC Milan vs Hellas Verona
- Venue: San Siro, Milan, Italy.
- Date: Saturday, September 23
- Time: 15:00 CET
Preview
AC Milan will be facing Hellas Verona in what is expected to be one of the most exciting Serie A upcoming matches. AC Milan is determined to recover from their 5-2 loss to Inter Milan, despite having a Champions League match against Newcastle midweek. Meanwhile, Hellas Verona has started the Serie A season well, winning two out of three games. They will use their match against Bologna as preparation for their match against Milan. Despite the strong start from Hellas Verona, Milan is favored to win due to their talented team and determination to recover from recent defeats.
Sassuolo vs Juventus
- Venue: Mapei Stadium – Città del Tricolore, Reggio Emilia, Italy.
- Date: Saturday, September 23
- Time: 18:00 CET
Preview
Juventus currently holds the second position in the league rankings, having won three matches and drawn one in their first four games. In their most recent match, they secured a convincing 3-1 win against Lazio, demonstrating their skill and ability. With such a great start to the season, Juventus has high hopes for a successful campaign. On the other hand, Sassuolo is not faring as well, sitting in 17th place. They have only won one match and lost three. Their defense is a major concern, as they have already allowed nine goals in the league, the second-highest among teams. Due to the vast contrast in performance and form, Juventus is the clear favorite in this match.
Monza vs Lazio
- Venue: U-Power Stadium, Monza, Italy.
- Date: Saturday, September 23
- Time: 20:45 CET
Preview
The previous Serie A match saw Monza achieve a respectable 1-1 draw against Leece, showing their perseverance during the game. In contrast, Lazio’s recent game saw them suffer a 3-1 loss to Juventus, highlighting their poor performance this season, having only won one game and lost three games. Monza has only scored three goals in four games, while Lazio has only managed to score an average of one goal per game. Based on this, it is likely that the upcoming match will have few goals scored.
Bologna vs Napoli
- Venue: Stadio Renato Dall’Ara, Bologna, Italy.
- Date: Sunday, September 24
- Time: 18:00 CET
Preview
Empoli is at the bottom of the Serie A table and they are getting ready to host the current champions, Napoli. Empoli’s upcoming games will be tough, especially after they were humiliated by Roma recently. This setback has definitely affected their confidence. They will be facing Napoli, a powerful team in Italian football, which will be a difficult challenge. On the other hand, Napoli is in a confusing situation. Despite being the defending champions, they haven’t been consistent like they were in their previous campaign. A recent draw against Genoa is a good example. However, Napoli wants to prove themselves and redeem themselves, which makes them favorites to win this game.
Torino vs Roma
- Venue: Stadio Olimpico Grande Torino, Turin, Italy.
- Date: Sunday, September 24
- Time: 20:45 CET
Preview
In the upcoming matchday 5 at Stadio Olimpico Grande Torino, the main focus will be on the game between Torino and Roma. However, Torino’s game against Salernitana is pending. Torino’s season has been a mix of wins, losses, and draws in their first three games. Therefore, their performance against Salernitana will set the tone for their upcoming match.
On the other hand, Roma made their presence known with an impressive 7-0 win over Empoli in their previous game. Roma’s offense displayed their attacking potential, leaving fans excited for their upcoming match. With Roma’s offense ready to shine, expectations are high for a thrilling and high-scoring encounter.
The upcoming month of football holds a range of exciting and memorable fixtures on the pitch, starting with AC Milan’s pursuit of redemption against Hellas Verona, followed by Juventus’ impressive form against Sassuolo. Monza’s resilience against Lazio’s troubles and Torino’s potential showdown with a resurgent Roma are also on the horizon. Lastly, Empoli’s daunting encounter with reigning champions Napoli is sure to provide a wealth of emotions. Don’t forget to follow HaG for more Serie A upcoming matches predictions.
Football
10 young players in Bundesliga to keep an eye in 2023
Published
2 weeks agoon
September 13, 2023
The Bundesliga has a rich footballing legacy, with the league emerging as one of the most competitive and exciting in the world. With a focus on nurturing young prospects, the Bundesliga has become a hotbed for German soccer’s top young players. This article zeroes in on the top 10 young players in Bundesliga expected to make significant impacts by 2023. These exceptional athletes have demonstrated immense potential, captivating fans and experts alike with their skills and potential to become future icons of the game. Follow us as we introduce you to these young talents ready to take the Bundesliga by storm.
This article was prepared with the support of our partners Free Betting Reviews!
The Best 10 young players in Bundesliga
Forwards
Youssoufa Moukoko
At just 18 years old, Moukoko burst onto the scene as the Bundesliga’s youngest-ever player and scorer. With extensive experience in top-level competitions, he has played at a World Cup, the Champions League, the Europa League, and the DFB Cup, netting 12 goals in 56 appearances in Germany’s top-flight league.
Mathys Tel
Tel, an 18-year-old striker, has quickly established himself as Bayern’s go-to marksman. He contributed five goals in 22 matches for Bayern Munich last season, but he has started the current season in remarkable fashion, tallying two goals in just three games.
Victor Boniface
Nigerian striker Victor Boniface has been impressive, bagging the Rookie of the Month award in his first month at Bayer Leverkusen. He has scored four goals and recorded two assists in three Bundesliga games since joining from Belgian side Union Saint-Gilloise, where he scored nine goals and assisted eight in 37 appearances.
Top Young Bundesliga Midfielders
Jamal Musiala
Noted for his elusive playmaking style, Musiala made an impact last season, contributing an impressive 12 goals and ten assists, making him Bayern’s standout goal contributor. Musiala’s defining moment came last season when he secured the Bundesliga title for Bayern with a dramatic last-minute goal.
Xavi Simmons
The 20-year-old midfielder, who scored 19 goals in 34 Eredivisie matches while on loan at PSV Eindhoven from Paris Saint-Germain last season, has earned a spot on the Netherlands national team and has the potential to showcase his talent at Leipzig after the departures of several first-choice players last season.
Florian Wirtz
Considered one of the most promising talents in the sport, Wirtz has gotten off to an excellent start this season, notching a goal and two assists in just three games. Wirtz has the potential to become a crucial figure in Leverkusen’s quest for the title this season if he can sustain his current level of performance.
Manu Kone
At just 21 years old, Manu Koné has emerged as a promising midfielder for Borussia M’gladbach. After a successful loan spell with Toulouse, Koné has become a regular fixture in Bundesliga highlight reels with his physicality, ball control, and ability to outmuscle defenders.
Best young players in Bundesliga: Defenders
Piero Hincapié
Hincapié, 21, has cemented his position as a central defender in Bayern Leverkusen’s revived squad under Xabi Alonso. Previously a left-back, Hincapié has seamlessly transitioned to the central defensive role and excelled. He is crucial to Leverkusen’s impressive start to the season.
Killian Sildillia
The young French talent stands out in an already captivating Freiburg team. His versatility is a key asset as he effortlessly adapts to various defensive positions, consistently performing at a high level of proficiency. Deployed as a right wing-back, his exceptional work rate enables him to excel in one-on-one duels against the Bundesliga’s top-notch attackers.
Goalkeeper
Noah Atubolu
Atubolu’s journey in football has included over 80 appearances for the Freiburg reserves, contributing significantly to their promotion to Germany’s 3. Liga. A consistent representative for Germany, Atubolu has been a part of the U17s squad and is currently the first-choice goalkeeper for the U21s national team. He is also Freiburg’s first-choice goalkeeper.
Germany is home to some of the best and brightest young players in the Bundesliga, with many emerging players set to make significant impacts by 2023. From forwards Youssoufa Moukoko and Victor Boniface to midfielders Jamal Musiala, Xavi Simmons, Florian Wirtz, and Manu Kone, and defenders Piero Hincapié and Killian Sildillia, the Bundesliga is bursting with young stars poised to light up the pitch with their skills and determination. Fans and experts alike are eagerly anticipating how these emerging talents will shape the future of the sport, and we can’t wait to see what these young players achieve next.

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