FIFA 2018 World Cup Final: Highlights, Key Moments & More

Hey guys! Let's dive back into the thrilling FIFA 2018 World Cup Final. This match was an absolute rollercoaster, packed with unforgettable moments. France and Croatia battled it out for the ultimate prize, and the game delivered drama, skill, and controversy in equal measure. Whether you're a die-hard football fan or just looking to relive some sporting history, this recap has got you covered. We'll break down the key plays, discuss the tactical decisions, and remember the sheer excitement of that day. So, grab your favorite snack, settle in, and let's get started!

The Road to the Final

Before we jump into the final itself, let's quickly recap how both teams made it to the showdown in Moscow. France, led by their young superstar Kylian Mbappé and seasoned veterans like Antoine Griezmann, had a relatively smooth journey through the group stage. They faced tougher challenges in the knockout rounds, overcoming Argentina in a thrilling 4-3 victory and then dispatching Uruguay and Belgium with solid, disciplined performances. Their blend of youthful exuberance and experienced leadership made them a formidable opponent for anyone.

Croatia, on the other hand, had a much more dramatic path to the final. Their group stage was perfect, but the knockout rounds were a test of their resilience. They went to extra time in all three matches against Denmark, Russia, and England, showcasing their incredible stamina and mental fortitude. Led by their midfield maestro Luka Modrić, Croatia demonstrated an unparalleled fighting spirit and determination that won them fans worldwide. Their journey was a testament to their never-say-die attitude, making their presence in the final all the more remarkable. This road paved with challenges only added to the excitement and anticipation surrounding the final match.

Key Moments and Highlights

The final itself was a spectacle from start to finish. Here are some of the standout moments that defined the match:

Early Controversies: An Own Goal and a Penalty

The game started with a bit of controversy. In the 18th minute, Antoine Griezmann delivered a free-kick that deflected off Mario Mandžukić's head and into his own net, giving France an early lead. This own goal was a huge blow to Croatia's confidence and set the tone for a tense first half. Replays showed that Paul Pogba may have been in an offside position, but the goal stood, adding fuel to the fire of debate among fans and pundits alike.

Just ten minutes later, Croatia responded with a fantastic goal from Ivan Perišić, who skillfully controlled the ball and fired a powerful shot past Hugo Lloris. The game was level, and Croatia seemed to have regained their composure. However, the drama didn't end there. In the 38th minute, a handball decision against Perišić after a VAR review led to a penalty for France. Griezmann stepped up and coolly converted, putting France back in the lead. The penalty decision was highly controversial, with many arguing that Perišić couldn't have avoided the ball hitting his hand. This moment sparked intense debate and added another layer of complexity to the match.

France Extends Their Lead: Pogba and Mbappé Strike

In the second half, France took control of the game with two quick goals. In the 59th minute, Paul Pogba capped off a brilliant move with a well-placed shot after his initial effort was blocked. This goal was a testament to Pogba's talent and his ability to perform on the biggest stage. Just six minutes later, Kylian Mbappé etched his name into World Cup history by becoming only the second teenager after Pelé to score in a World Cup final. His powerful strike from outside the box extended France's lead to 4-1, seemingly putting the game beyond Croatia's reach. Mbappé's goal showcased his incredible speed, skill, and composure, solidifying his status as one of the brightest young stars in the world.

Croatia's Fightback: Mandžukić's Goal

Despite being down by three goals, Croatia refused to give up. In the 69th minute, Mario Mandžukić capitalized on a horrendous error by Hugo Lloris, who tried to dribble past him in the box, and slotted the ball into the net. This goal gave Croatia a glimmer of hope and injected some much-needed energy back into their game. Although they continued to push forward, France's defense held firm, and they were unable to find another breakthrough. Mandžukić's goal, while ultimately not enough to change the outcome, highlighted Croatia's resilience and determination to fight until the very end.

Tactical Analysis

France's tactical approach was centered around a solid defensive structure and quick counter-attacks. Didier Deschamps set up his team in a 4-4-2 formation, focusing on denying Croatia space in midfield and exploiting their pace on the wings with Mbappé and Griezmann. Their strategy was effective in stifling Croatia's creativity and capitalizing on their defensive vulnerabilities. France's ability to absorb pressure and strike decisively on the counter proved to be the key to their victory.

Croatia, on the other hand, relied on their midfield dominance and intricate passing game. Luka Modrić and Ivan Rakitić controlled the tempo of the match, but they struggled to break down France's disciplined defense. Zlatko Dalić's decision to stick with the same starting lineup despite their grueling knockout matches may have contributed to their fatigue in the final. While they showed flashes of brilliance, they were ultimately unable to match France's physicality and clinical finishing.

The Impact and Legacy

France's victory in the 2018 World Cup cemented their status as one of the top teams in the world. It was a triumph for their manager, Didier Deschamps, who became only the third person to win the World Cup as both a player and a coach. The win also marked the emergence of Kylian Mbappé as a global superstar, setting the stage for his future dominance in the sport. The victory sparked celebrations across France and solidified the team's place in the nation's sporting history.

For Croatia, despite the defeat, their performance in the tournament was nothing short of remarkable. They captured the hearts of fans around the world with their fighting spirit and incredible resilience. Luka Modrić's outstanding performances earned him the Golden Ball award as the tournament's best player, a testament to his exceptional talent and leadership. Croatia's journey to the final inspired a nation and proved that anything is possible with hard work, determination, and belief.

Conclusion

The FIFA 2018 World Cup Final was a match filled with drama, controversy, and unforgettable moments. France's victory was a result of their tactical discipline, clinical finishing, and the brilliance of their star players. Croatia's journey to the final was a testament to their resilience, fighting spirit, and the leadership of Luka Modrić. The match will be remembered as a classic encounter that showcased the best of football. Whether you're a fan of France, Croatia, or just a lover of the beautiful game, the 2018 World Cup Final provided memories that will last a lifetime. So, let's raise a glass to both teams for giving us such an incredible spectacle! What were your favorite moments from the final? Let us know in the comments below!