And so it seems that dreams do sometimes come true. Lionel Messi, the greatest footballer of his generation and arguably the greatest of all time, finally got his hands on the Jules Rimet trophy at the fifth time of asking when Argentina edged out France on penalties in a thrilling match that is being hailed as the greatest World Cup Final ever.

For 79 minutes it all seemed so easy for the South Americans as they cruised to a 2-0 lead, scoring a goal in the process that is comparable to the brilliant strike by Brazilian Carlos Alberto in the 1970 final against Italy. Both goals were outstanding examples of team beauty. But then up stepped Kylian Mbappe, the genial French striker and heir to the throne of King Messi. First an unstoppable penalty and then a superb strike on the volley to bring the teams level at 2-2. And so it was into extra time. Messi makes it 3-2, Mbappe strikes back with another bullet-like penalty. Both sides had further chances to score but the game was destined for a penalty shoot out. Messi and Mbappe both dispatched their kicks to the net but France were ultimately undone by the brilliance and the unsporting antics of Argentinian goalkeeper Martinez. So is all really fair in love, war and football? Of course it’s not but at least the great man Messi, who has brought continuous joy to football lovers for over 15 years, finally got the ultimate reward.

It was richly deserved.