Paul Dybala really didn’t get many opportunities during World Cup 2022. But striker Argentina he was able to do the job well when needed and was instrumental in the success of the Albiceleste becoming champion.
Dybala has not been used at all by the coach Lionel Scaloni up to the quarterfinals. It is believed that this is not only related to tactics, but also to his physical condition, which is recovering from an injury before the start of the tournament.
The Roma player just made his debut at the 2022 World Cup in the semifinal against Croatia. He was only introduced in the 74th minute, when Argentina led 3-0. While he was in the field, he didn’t fire a single shot.
In the finals against France, Dybala also didn’t appear to play at the start. As the match went into extra time at 2-2, Scaloni initially also put Lautaro Martinez on first.
Dybala only came on after 120+1 minutes, when the match was almost over and the decision had to be made on penalties after a 3-3 draw. It seems that he was deliberately included to take part in the high five.
Players who have only been on the pitch for a while usually have a tendency to miss out on penalties. It was feared that Dybala would meet a similar fate. But apparently he was able to shatter the myth.
Being the second footballer after Lionel Messi, Dybala was able to perform his duties well. He sent the ball into the middle of the goal, outsmarting the French goalkeeper, Hugo Lloris, who guessed the wrong direction. In the process, Argentina then won 4-2.
Throughout the tournament perhaps Dybala will be hoping to play more often than sitting on the bench. However, with Argentina’s success in winning the World Cup, with him involved, it seems he won’t mind.
(adp/bay)
