2018 FIFA World Cup Final: France Vs. Croatia

by Jhon Lennon 46 views

The 2018 FIFA World Cup was a tournament to remember, guys! And what better way to cap it off than with an epic final? Let's dive into the details of that thrilling match between France and Croatia.

The Road to the Final

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of the final match, it's important to remember how both teams got there. Both France and Croatia had some seriously tough competition to overcome. The journey to the final was filled with memorable moments, nail-biting finishes, and some surprising upsets.

France's Journey

France, led by their star-studded squad, had a relatively smooth journey through the group stage, securing their spot in the knockout rounds with relative ease. However, their path to the final wasn't without its challenges. They faced tough opponents like Argentina in the Round of 16, where they emerged victorious in a thrilling 4-3 encounter. Their quarter-final match against Uruguay was a more controlled affair, with France securing a 2-0 win. In the semi-final, they faced Belgium, in what many considered a preview of the final. A 1-0 victory secured France's place in the final, showcasing their defensive resilience and attacking prowess.

Throughout the tournament, France displayed a blend of youthful exuberance and experienced leadership. Players like Kylian Mbappé burst onto the scene, showcasing his incredible speed and goal-scoring ability. The midfield, marshaled by Paul Pogba and N'Golo Kanté, provided a solid foundation for the team. The defense, led by Raphael Varane, proved to be difficult to break down. All of these factors contributed to France's successful run to the final.

Croatia's Journey

Croatia, on the other hand, had a much more dramatic journey to the final. After topping their group with a perfect record, they faced a series of knockout matches that went to extra time and penalties. In the Round of 16, they defeated Denmark in a penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw. Their quarter-final match against Russia also went to penalties after a 2-2 draw. The semi-final against England was another grueling affair, with Croatia coming from behind to win 2-1 in extra time. These matches showcased Croatia's resilience, determination, and mental strength.

Despite the fatigue and physical toll of playing three consecutive matches that went to extra time, Croatia continued to fight. Led by their captain Luka Modrić, they displayed incredible teamwork and spirit. Players like Ivan Rakitić and Ivan Perišić played crucial roles in midfield and attack. The defense, led by Dejan Lovren, held strong under immense pressure. Croatia's journey to the final was a testament to their never-say-die attitude and their unwavering belief in their ability to succeed.

The Final Match: France vs. Croatia

The final match took place on July 15, 2018, at the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow. The atmosphere was electric, with fans from both countries creating a vibrant and passionate atmosphere. The match was highly anticipated, with many expecting a close and exciting encounter between two evenly matched teams.

First Half

The match started with both teams displaying attacking intent. France, with their pace and power, looked to exploit the Croatian defense. Croatia, with their midfield creativity, looked to control possession and create scoring opportunities. The first goal of the match came in the 18th minute when Antoine Griezmann scored from a controversial free-kick, which was deflected into the net by Mario Mandžukić for an own goal. Croatia responded quickly, with Ivan Perišić scoring a stunning goal in the 28th minute to level the score. However, France regained the lead in the 38th minute when Antoine Griezmann scored from the penalty spot after a handball by Ivan Perišić. The first half ended with France leading 2-1.

Second Half

The second half saw France increase their lead, with Paul Pogba scoring a well-taken goal in the 59th minute. Kylian Mbappé added another goal in the 65th minute, becoming only the second teenager after Pelé to score in a World Cup final. Croatia pulled a goal back in the 69th minute when Mario Mandžukić capitalized on a mistake by Hugo Lloris. However, France managed to hold on to their lead and secure a 4-2 victory.

Key Moments

  • Own Goal: Mario Mandžukić's own goal gave France an early lead.
  • PeriÅ¡ić's Goal: Ivan PeriÅ¡ić's stunning goal leveled the score for Croatia.
  • Griezmann's Penalty: Antoine Griezmann's penalty put France back in the lead.
  • Pogba's Goal: Paul Pogba's goal extended France's lead in the second half.
  • Mbappé's Goal: Kylian Mbappé's goal sealed the victory for France.
  • Lloris's Mistake: Hugo Lloris's mistake allowed Mario Mandžukić to score a consolation goal for Croatia.

The Aftermath

France's victory in the 2018 FIFA World Cup marked their second World Cup title, adding to their triumph in 1998. The win was celebrated wildly in France, with millions of fans taking to the streets to celebrate their team's success. Didier Deschamps, the coach of the French team, became only the third person to win the World Cup as both a player and a coach.

France's Triumph

France's triumph was a testament to their talented squad, their tactical flexibility, and their mental strength. They overcame tough opponents, navigated difficult situations, and ultimately emerged as deserving champions. The victory solidified their status as one of the top teams in the world and set the stage for future success.

Croatia's Valiant Effort

Despite the defeat, Croatia's performance in the 2018 FIFA World Cup was nothing short of remarkable. They exceeded all expectations, reaching the final for the first time in their history. Their journey was filled with drama, excitement, and unforgettable moments. The team's resilience, determination, and teamwork won the hearts of fans around the world. Although they fell short of winning the title, they returned home as heroes, celebrated for their valiant effort and their contribution to the sport.

Conclusion

The 2018 FIFA World Cup Final was a memorable match that showcased the best of football. France's victory was a triumph for their talented squad and their tactical approach. Croatia's journey to the final was a testament to their resilience and their unwavering spirit. The match will be remembered for its drama, its excitement, and its unforgettable moments. It was a fitting end to a tournament that captivated the world.