Who Won the Last World Cup?

Argentina's Lionel Messi holds the trophy aloft as he celebrates with his team at the end of the World Cup final soccer match between Argentina and France at the Lusail Stadium in Lusail, Qatar, Sunday, Dec. 18, 2022.
(AP Photo/Hassan Ammar)
  • Argentina won the most recent World Cup in 2022.
  • Lionel Scaloni’s side defeated France via penalty shootout in the World Cup Final.
  • Lionel Messi won the Golden Ball as the tournament’s best player.

Hosted every four years, the FIFA World Cup is the most-watched sporting event globally.

The tournament truly brings the world together, as nations vie for the greatest honour in soccer.

Below, I’ll look back on the last World Cup, hosted by Qatar in 2022.

Who Won the Last World Cup?

Argentina overcame short soccer odds to win the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

The title was its third World Cup triumph and first since 1986. 

After losing its opening match of the group stage to Saudi Arabia, Lionel Scaloni’s side rebounded with six consecutive victories to lift the trophy.

Argentina held its nerve in a penalty shootout twice during the knockout stages, first against the Netherlands in the quarterfinals and then again in the final against France.

How Much Money did Argentina Get For Winning the World Cup?

Argentina received a record $42 million for winning the 2022 World Cup. 

That figure was $4 million more than France earned for lifting the trophy in 2018.

Did Messi Win the Last World Cup?

Lionel Messi was instrumental in Argentina’s success at the last World Cup and won the Golden Ball, awarded to the tournament’s best player at its co

The left-footed forward recorded seven goals and three assists in seven matches, including a pair of goals in the final against France.

Messi is the first player ever to win the Golden Ball twice, having previously earned the award after leading Argentina to the 2014 World Cup Final, where it fell to Germany 1-0 in extra time.

Will Messi Play in the 2026 World Cup?

It’s unclear if Messi will play in the 2026 World Cup.

The 38-year-old has not verbally committed to playing in the tournament, which Canada, Mexico, and the United States will host.

However, Messi did play a key role in helping Argentina progress through CONMEBOL qualifying, ensuring the 2022 champions had the opportunity to defend their title.

Argentina and the other qualified nations will announce their final 26-man squads closer to the start of the tournament.

Given his significance to the national team, I think Messi’s decision could affect Argentina’s World Cup odds at the BetMGM online sportsbook.

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