Table of Contents
Introduction
The final match of the FIFA World Cup is always a highly anticipated event that captivates football fans around the globe. The last edition of the tournament, held in Russia in 2018, was no exception. The final match saw France and Croatia battling it out for the prestigious title. In this article, we will analyze the final match of the last World Cup, exploring the key moments, tactics, and players that shaped the outcome of the game.
The Road to the Final
Before delving into the final match, it is important to understand the journey both France and Croatia took to reach the pinnacle of the tournament. France, led by their talented coach Didier Deschamps, showcased their strength and determination throughout the competition. They topped their group, which included Denmark, Peru, and Australia, and then went on to defeat Argentina, Uruguay, and Belgium in the knockout stages.
On the other hand, Croatia, under the guidance of Zlatko Dalic, displayed their resilience and skill as they progressed through the tournament. They also finished first in their group, which consisted of Argentina, Iceland, and Nigeria. Croatia then overcame Denmark, Russia, and England in the knockout rounds to secure their place in the final.
The Final Match
The final match between France and Croatia took place on July 15, 2018, at the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow. The atmosphere was electric as both teams stepped onto the pitch, knowing that they were just one game away from etching their names in football history.
Early Goals Set the Tone
France got off to a dream start when Antoine Griezmann won a controversial free-kick just outside the penalty area. Griezmann stepped up and delivered a perfectly placed ball into the box, which was inadvertently headed into the net by Croatian striker Mario Mandzukic. This own goal gave France an early lead in the 18th minute.
However, Croatia did not let this setback deter them. They continued to press forward and were rewarded in the 28th minute when Ivan Perisic unleashed a powerful left-footed shot into the bottom corner of the net, leveling the score. The first half ended with both teams locked at 1-1.
Second Half Dominance
The second half saw France take control of the game, showcasing their superior athleticism and tactical discipline. In the 59th minute, Paul Pogba scored a crucial goal for France, capitalizing on a rebound from a blocked shot. This gave France a 2-1 lead and injected them with a surge of confidence.
Just six minutes later, Kylian Mbappe, the young French sensation, showcased his incredible speed and skill as he scored a stunning goal from outside the box. At just 19 years old, Mbappe became the second teenager in history to score in a World Cup final, following in the footsteps of the legendary Pele.
Controversial VAR Decision
One of the most talked-about moments of the final was the controversial VAR (Video Assistant Referee) decision that awarded France a penalty in the 38th minute. Perisic was adjudged to have handled the ball in the box, leading to a penalty for France. Griezmann stepped up and converted the penalty, extending France’s lead to 4-1.
The decision to award the penalty was met with mixed reactions, with some arguing that it was a harsh call, while others believed it was the correct decision based on the rules of the game. Regardless, this moment had a significant impact on the outcome of the match.
Key Players and Tactics
Both teams had key players who played crucial roles in the final match. For France, the midfield duo of N’Golo Kante and Paul Pogba provided stability and creativity in the center of the pitch. Kante’s tireless work rate and ability to break up opposition attacks allowed Pogba to showcase his passing range and contribute to the team’s attacking play.
Croatia relied heavily on their midfield maestro, Luka Modric, who was instrumental in orchestrating their attacks and dictating the tempo of the game. Modric’s vision and technical ability were on full display throughout the tournament, and he continued to shine in the final despite being on the losing side.
In terms of tactics, France adopted a pragmatic approach, focusing on solid defensive organization and quick counter-attacks. Their pace and athleticism in the attacking third proved to be a potent weapon against Croatia’s defense. On the other hand, Croatia favored a possession-based style of play, relying on their midfield creativity to unlock the French defense.
Conclusion
The final match of the 2018 FIFA World Cup between France and Croatia was a thrilling encounter that showcased the best of both teams. France’s clinical finishing, tactical discipline, and individual brilliance proved to be the difference on the day. Croatia’s journey to the final was commendable, and they displayed great resilience and skill throughout the tournament.
The final match will be remembered for its early goals, second-half dominance by France, and the controversial VAR decision. Key players such as Griezmann, Pogba, Modric, and Mbappe left their mark on the game, demonstrating their exceptional talent and ability to perform under pressure.
In the end, France emerged victorious, securing their second World Cup title. The final match was a fitting end to a memorable tournament, leaving football fans eagerly awaiting the next edition of the FIFA World Cup.