It was Lionel Messi’s moment; nobody can deny that.
Argentina’s coveted captain completed football when he lifted the World Cup trophy high above his heads towards the heavens.
The sporting angel may have graced the grandest stage one last time, but he did so with typical grace and grit.
Yet, the messiah could not have added the last piece of his puzzle without those who battled and bruised to ensure their skipper secured the top prize.
Thanks to Emi Martinez’s masterclass in penalties, and how to put off an opponent, Argentina reached and won the final against France.
Nicolas Otamendi rolled back the years to remind many why Manchester City ever signed him in the first place.
Julian Alvarez also proved why he is the newest jewel in the Etihad kingdom.
Amongst the many Argentine heroes, unsung or not, was one man who went about his business quietly but extremely efficiently.
Alexis Mac Allister announced to the world
Had you told Brighton & Hove Albion fans they’d be watching one of their own in a World Cup final last month, they would have laughed you off the pier.
After witnessing Alexis Mac Allister become a global champion, they would’ve then hauled you in from the South Coast Sea.
Mac Allister was marvellous from the second he started the second group game against Mexico, to the 116th minute in the victory over France yesterday.
His journey from Argentinos Juniors to assisting in the World Cup showpiece event in just three years is quite incredible.
Whilst the Brighton midfielder probably has plenty of people to thank for reaching the pinnacle of the profession, there is someone above many who deserves major acknowledgment.
Graham Potter planned Mac Allister
Graham Potter became the manager of the Seagulls shortly after Mac Allister joined the club in January 2019.
Potter was united with the 23-year-old ahead of the 2020/21 campaign, as he’d spent the remainder of the season with Argentinos Juniors.
Whilst Mac Allister was not an instant success over night, he gradually grew into an established Premier League player under his former boss.
His full-form began to take shape ahead of the World Cup, thanks to four goals in the first six league fixtures.
He was playing arguably his best football in England to date, owed in great deal to Potter.
Sadly, the pair could not continue their project together, as Chelsea bagged the Brighton coach following the departure of Thomas Tuchel.
Although Mac Allister might not be his soldier anymore, Potter can take great pride that he helped produced one of the World Cup’s finest performers.