#120: Emi Martínez’s Last-Second Save vs. France (2022 World Cup Final)
- Jonathan Turner
- Feb 11
- 2 min read
NATIONAL SOCCER NEWS: www.nationalsoccernetwork.com
Some saves win games.
This one saved a World Cup.
In the final moments of extra time at the 2022 FIFA World Cup Final, with Argentina and France locked in a 3–3 thriller, France had one last chance to steal history.
Randal Kolo Muani broke free. One-on-one.The clock ticking toward penalties.A World Cup on the line.
And then…
Emiliano Martínez stepped up.
The Moment
In the 123rd minute, Kolo Muani raced in behind Argentina’s defense. Clean look. Inside the box. The entire stadium holding its breath.
Martínez exploded off his line, spread his body wide, and blocked the shot with his leg — a reflex save that instantly became one of the most important in World Cup history.
If that ball goes in, France wins 4–3.
Instead, the match went to penalties.
The Ripple Effect
That save didn’t just keep Argentina alive — it shifted momentum.
Minutes later in the shootout, Martínez delivered again, using mind games and sharp reflexes to help secure Argentina’s victory.
Lionel Messi lifted the World Cup trophy.Argentina captured its third title.And Martínez cemented himself as a national hero.
Why It’s #120
The World Cup has seen legendary goals, iconic celebrations, and unforgettable drama.
But rarely does one split-second save carry this much weight.
Final minute of extra time
World Cup Final
Dynasty-defining
Legacy-altering
Martínez didn’t just stop a shot.
He preserved history.
The Countdown Begins
If #120 gave us one of the greatest saves ever on the biggest stage, imagine what’s still ahead.
119 more unforgettable World Cup moments are coming.
The countdown continues tomorrow.
Stay with NSN.
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