A heavyweight final living up to every expectation. France struck first through Mbappé's trademark left-channel burst, but Argentina's reigning champions roared back either side of half-time — Messi's disguised through ball releasing Lautaro, then Álvarez finishing a slick Mac Allister move. Dembélé's curling equaliser at 84' forced extra time, where Cherki's fresh legs threaded the decisive pass for Mbappé to win France a third star. A tactical and emotional epic decided by the depth of Deschamps' bench.

• Mbappé becomes the first man since 1974 to score in two World Cup finals — and adds the trophy this time
• Dembélé directly involved in two French goals (1G, 1A) in his Ballon d'Or season
• Messi's exquisite assist for Lautaro gave Argentina the lead but the holders fell in extra time
• France's bench changed the final: Cherki's introduction unlocked the winning goal
• First World Cup final settled in extra time without penalties since 1966