Rodrigo de Paul says Argentina were born to suffer after celebrating his side s remarkable World Cup victory over France in Qatar.
Lionel Scaloni s side held a two-goal lead at the interval against the defending champions, but a second-half brace from Kylian Mbappe turned the tie on it s head, with further drama to follow.
Lionel Messi scored his second of the game to hand Argentina the lead again in extra time, but a second Mbappe penalty clinched the forward his hat-trick, sending the game to penalties – where Gonzalo Montiel tucked home the deciding effort.
Having fallen at the final hurdle in 1990 and 2014, the win handed Argentina their first World Cup crown since 1986 and will result in a third star on their shirt – only Brazil (five), Germany and Italy (both four) having won more.
3 Argentina have won the World Cup for a third time (also 1978 and 1986), 36 years since their last triumph in 1986. Only Italy (44 from 1938 to 1982) have ever had a longer gap between winning two World Cups. Elation.
— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe)
An emotional De Paul acknowledged the attitude of the Argentinian people with his post-match assessment, referencing the suffering his people have endured in history.
We were born to suffer, we are going to suffer all our lives, but I will never forget this, he said on the field after the final whistle.
I think we are fair winners. To be champions, you had to beat the last champion, and we did. This is a joy I can t explain.
Fellow midfielder Enzo Fernandez, who was crowned the best young player at the tournament, revelled in the priceless experience he enjoyed in Qatar.
Being here, having the possibility of winning a World Cup with my country is priceless, he said. My whole family is here, I m going to carry it forever in my heart.
