A Wound That Refuses to Heal
Kylian Mbappe has revealed that he has never rewatched the 2022 World Cup final — and has no intention of doing so, admitting the memory of Frances penalty shootout defeat to Argentina could “wake some demons” if he revisited it.
Speaking to French media ahead of the 2026 World Cup, which begins on 11 June across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, the France captain was asked directly whether he had ever brought himself to watch the dramatic 3-3 extra-time classic that ultimately went Argentinas way on penalties.
“No, no, never,” Mbappe replied. “If I saw it again, it could wake some demons. We have to move on. We lost, that is it.”
That Night in Qatar
The 2022 final in Qatar is widely regarded as the greatest World Cup final of all time. Mbappe scored a sensational hat-trick, becoming only the second player in history to score three goals in a mens World Cup final after Geoff Hurst. His two goals in normal time dragged France back from 2-0 down, and his penalty in extra time cancelled out Lionel Messi’s effort to make it 3-3.
In the shootout, Mbappe confidently converted his spot-kick, but Aurelien Tchouameni and Kingsley Coman could not hold their nerve from 12 yards. Argentina converted all four of their penalties, handing Lionel Scalonis side a third World Cup title and Lionel Messi the one trophy that had eluded his legendary career.
Redemption Mission in 2026
Four years on, Mbappe leads a France side determined to go one better. Les Bleus enter the 2026 tournament as one of the strongest teams in the field, boasting an enviable blend of experience and emerging talent. Michael Olise has emerged as a creative force alongside Mbappe, while the midfield engine room remains formidable.
Didier Deschamps, who has led France to a World Cup title (2018), a Nations League crown (2021), and a World Cup final (2022) during his tenure, will be looking to add another chapter to his remarkable managerial career. For Mbappe, now 27 and captain of his country, this tournament represents a defining moment in his legacy.
“I am at a different stage of my career now,” Mbappe has reflected in the buildup. “I have experienced so much since that night in Qatar. The pain is still there, but it drives me. It motivates the whole squad.”
Never Watching Back
Mbappes refusal to revisit the 2022 final is telling. For a player who has dominated almost every stage he has graced, that night in Lusail remains the one that got away. Rather than dwell on it, he has channeled the disappointment into a relentless pursuit of excellence.
As France prepare to embark on their World Cup campaign, the question on everyones lips is whether Mbappe can exorcise those demons once and for all. A second World Cup winners’ medal would certainly help.
