Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded and congratulated ace football player Lionel Messi and his team after the South American giants defeated the reigning champions France in the FIFA World Cup 2022 final, breaking its championship drought in the biggest football tournament on Sunday.
The FIFA championship this year was held in Qatar, while the final match was played between Argentina and France at the Lusail Stadium. In the exciting match, Messi-led Argentina defeated Kylian Mbappe-led France on penalties to win their third FIFA World Cup championship.
PM Modi took to his Twitter handle on Sunday and wrote, "This will be remembered as one of the most thrilling Football matches! Congrats to Argentina on becoming #FIFAWorldCup Champions! They’ve played brilliantly through the tournament. Millions of Indian fans of Argentina and Messi rejoice in the magnificent victory! @alferdez."
Additionally, PM Modi also commends France for its valiant effort at the FIFA tournament. "Congratulations to France for a spirited performance at the #FIFAWorldCup! They also delighted Football fans with their skill and sportsmanship on the way to the finals. @EmmanuelMacron", he wrote in a separate tweet.
Meanwhile, talking of the highly speculated clash, Argentina's star player Messi scored early, and in a thrilling first half, winger Di Maria doubled the South American powerhouses' advantage.
However, the reigning champions, led by star attacker Kylian Mbappe, mounted a late comeback for France in the second half. Prior to Mbappe making his presence known by scoring the final goal to complete his hat-trick, Messi appeared to have decided the goal-fest final with his second goal in the extra time.
In the 118th minute of the match, Mbappe came up with a third goal, setting up the penalty shootout. At last, Argentina's Gonzalo Montiel converted the deciding penalty to secure a thrilling 4-2 triumph for the Messi-led squad in Qatar.
