The World Cup final is here as two huge footballing nations go head-to-head in Qatar. We’ve previewed Argentina vs France and provided our verdict on whether it will be Lionel Messi or Kylian Mbappe raising the prestigious trophy above their head.
For all the latest World Cup final betting markets and football odds, head to NetBet Sport.
World Cup Final
Argentina vs France
Sunday 18th December, 3pm
Lusail Iconic Stadium, Lusail
World Cup Final: Argentina vs France Football Preview
It will be a historic day regardless of who lifts the trophy. Many are rooting for Messi to cement his claim as the best player of all time, whilst Mbappe fans are keen to see the wonderkid lift a second World Cup at just 23 years of age. But it is far more than just Messi vs Mbappe.
Two-time champions Argentina have not lifted the trophy since 1986, despite reaching two finals in the 26 years following the 3-2 win over West Germany. France have also tasted World Cup glory twice and will be looking to become only the third nation to win back-to-back tournaments (Italy and Brazil being the others).
Both were comfortable winners in their respective semi-finals, but will face their toughest test when they meet on Sunday afternoon. Messi and Mbappe will of course have a huge part to play in the outcome, but there are countless crucial battles across the pitch.
Can veteran striker Olivier Giroud continue his rich vein of form against a tenacious Argentine backline? Who will win the midfield battle, 21-year-old Enzo Fernandez or 22-year-old Aurelien Tchouameni? Will Spurs keeper Hugo Lloris or former Arsenal man Emi Martinez be the hero in net?
Argentina vs France Football Odds
There is no clear favourite for the World Cup final. Champions France are at 2.76 to defend their title in 90 minutes, whilst Argentina are at 2.83 to emerge victorious. In spite of the attacking talent in both camps, over 2.5 goals is seen as unlikely at 2.43, with both teams to score (2.01) enough to double your stake.
Rather unsurprisingly, Messi (5.40) and Mbappe (6.00) are leading the odds to open the scoring for their nations, followed by Julian Alvarez (7.50), Giroud (7.80) and Lautaro Martinez (8.00).
World Cup Final Betting Tips
Both teams to score – 2.01
These are two of the most prolific attacking nations. With the abundance of talent in forward areas for both nations, there has surely got to be goals.
Argentina: over 2 cards – 2.08
The Argentina defence are in for a serious challenge. They will do whatever it takes to stop the French attack, and rightly so, but it could end in plenty of cautions for the South Americans.
Mbappe to score anytime and both teams to score – 4.30
Mbappe will provide this Argentina defence with the toughest test of their World Cup thus far. Neither team will sit back and defend, which should see plenty of space in the transition. Mbappe is the most effective player in transition in world football, and the stage is set for the young man to steal the limelight.
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