A crowning glory for Argentina's icon, or a rare repeat for reigning champion France?

    The men's World Cup final is taking place in Qatar, capping a month of sporting drama and geopolitical controversy. The tournament has featured surprise results and fairy-tale runs, but the final sees two giants of the game compete for the title — headlined by a pair of diminutive stars.

    Lionel Messi is hoping to secure the trophy that would cement his status as perhaps the game's greatest ever player. The 35-year-old will bow out on the global stage backed by a soccer-mad country that has sent legions of fans to the Middle East.

    Kylian Mbappé could solidify his claim as the young pretender to Messi's throne if the speedy and skillful forward can help France become the first team to go back-to-back since Brazil in 1962.

    Both countries are aiming for a third title on Fox, Telemundo or Peacock.

    Sunday's final was a battle of wills as the competitors met each other shot for shot well into extra time, until Argentina ended France's hope for a consecutive win in penalty kicks. 

    Argentina took an early lead, scoring two goals in the first half. France was thoroughly outplayed and was consistently on the defensive but rallied in the second half and in extra time. 

    Lionel Messi, Argentina's captain, has taken his first World Cup title in what is likely to be the 35-year-old's last appearance in the tournament. He solidified an incredible legacy as fans debate whether Messi is the greatest player of all time. 

    But he met his match in Kylian Mbappé, France's young upstart, who tied the game twice. The 23-year-old scored three goals in addition to a penalty kick, earning him the Golden Boot.