A former Russian national team player shared his perspective on how the World Cup 2022 final may unfold, with the semi-final stage expected to unfold in the coming days. The talk centers on the dramatic path that has defined Qatar 2022 and the teams that remain in the race for the title in a tournament that captured global attention.
Argentina is set to meet Croatia in the first World Cup semi-final, a match scheduled for 13 December with kick-off at 22:00 Moscow time. The second semi-final brings France against Morocco, slated for 14 December at 22:00 Moscow time. These fixtures bring together a mix of storied national programs and rising stars, creating a spectacle that has drawn fans from North America to Europe and beyond. The anticipation in Canada and the United States mirrors the global interest, as viewers look for tactical narratives, star players, and the potential for an unlikely underdog run or a familiar powerhouse to claim glory on the world stage.
In assessing the two matchups, the former player offered his take: he would favor Argentina advancing to the final and also see France as a strong contender to win it all. He noted that Morocco, while earning admiration for their disciplined and spirited style, faces a tougher test against the French side, which has depth across the pitch. For Argentina, the analyst pointed to the team’s experience and skill as a potential edge against Croatia, underscoring that Lionel Messi and his teammates could capitalize on moments that swing a tightly fought contest in their favor. The assessment reflects a belief in the tactical flexibility and high-quality attacking options available to Argentina, even as Croatia has proven resilient in knockout play throughout the tournament.
The World Cup in Qatar began on 20 November, drawing international audiences into a festival of football across diverse venues and climates. A notable storyline has been the host nation’s rough start, struggling to advance from the group stage after a string of matches that ended with a modest goal tally and, in the end, an early exit from the competition. As the tournament progressed, fans and analysts watched the evolving form of European and South American powerhouses, each hoping to claim the coveted trophy in the final showdown. The championship match is scheduled for 18 December, to be held at the Lusail Iconic Stadium, a venue that has hosted some of the tournament’s most memorable moments and remains a focal point for celebrations and recollections of a tournament that delivered drama from start to finish.
Prior reporting had highlighted the expectations around the semi-final clash between Argentina and Croatia, with observers suggesting that Lionel Messi and his teammates deserved recognition for their performance and potential to lift the trophy. The discussion around the players and teams reflected a broader conversation about leadership, resilience, and the enduring appeal of the World Cup as a platform for national pride and personal achievement. In the end, the semi-finals brought together teams whose journeys had been defined by decisive victories, dramatic comebacks, and moments of individual brilliance that have left a lasting impression on fans who followed every twist and turn of the tournament.