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After almost a month of soccer, the World Cup final is decided. France will take on Croatia in a match that is sure to excite. Their journey to the final wasn’t easy, as they have both been battle tested this tournament. But in the end, it’s hard to argue against both them being where they are. Let’s break down the best moments from this past round and how exactly they reached the final.
Firstly, let’s start with the first semifinal which fielded France versus a very tough side in Belgium. It was a very tough and tactical game which saw Belgium hold most of the possession, but in the end they were the ones who came up short. A goal from centerback Samuel Umtiti in the 51st minute sealed the deal.
"Magnifique Umtiti!"
— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) July 10, 2018
Here's how the game-winning goal sounded in French! pic.twitter.com/QB5YIXkgvQ
In the end, Belgium were not able to generate any attack, if with the fact the they held the ball for the majority of the match.
Going forward, France who have been the favorites this tournament, definitely deserve to be where they are. They know exactly what they want to do and they execute it. A lot of praise has been going to the likes of Kylian Mbappe and Antione Griezmann, however, defensively they have been superb.
Moving on, the next semifinal was filled with excitement. England outside back Kieran Trippier scores a world class free kick to start the game off.
This view of Trippier's goal is the best thing you will watch tonight. Bend it like Trippier. Beauty. pic.twitter.com/gAYaGybV7h #ENGCRO
— World Cup (@FlFAWC2018) July 11, 2018
After that, Croatia pressured England and finally got the break- through through another great goal.
A huge goal from Perisic and #CRO! 20 minutes left to find a winner...pic.twitter.com/hSexFZywZ5
— SOCCER.COM (@soccerdotcom) July 11, 2018
Ultimately, Croatia came out on top after Mario Mandzukic scored the winning goal in extra time. The “It’s coming home” crowd were stunned, but when it’s all said and done, England have a lot to look forward to and the better of the two teams won.
Croatia books their FIRST EVER #WorldCupFinal appearance thanks to Mario Mandzukic’s goal in the 109th minute!!! #CROENG #WorldCup (via @FOXSoccer) pic.twitter.com/UafdeFNC7t
— A Few Good Mics (@AFewGoodMics) July 11, 2018
Moving on, England will play Belgium in the 3rd place match on Saturday and the World Cup final between France and Croatia will take place in Sunday. Will France win their second World Cup or will Croatia finally be able to get their hands on the trophy? This matchup sets us up well for a great final. We get to see the likes of Ivan Rakitić and Luka Modric versus Paul Pogba and N’golo Kante. More than just that, France’s young attack against a tenacious Croatian defense. Closing this out, make sure to tune in as after this, we will have to wait another four year for a World Cup final.