FIFA 2018 World Cup Final: Highlights & Key Moments

The FIFA 2018 World Cup Final was a match for the ages, guys! Held in Moscow, it pitted France against Croatia in a thrilling contest filled with drama, goals, and unforgettable moments. If you missed it or just want to relive the excitement, let’s dive into the highlights and key moments that made this final so special.

The Road to the Final: France and Croatia's Journey

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of the final match, let's quickly recap how both teams made it to the ultimate showdown. France, led by their young superstar Kylian Mbappé and seasoned veterans like Antoine Griezmann, had a relatively smooth journey through the group stage, securing wins against Australia and Peru, and a draw against Denmark. In the knockout stages, they showed their mettle by defeating Argentina in a high-scoring thriller, followed by solid victories against Uruguay and Belgium. Their blend of youthful exuberance and experienced leadership made them a formidable opponent.

Croatia, on the other hand, had a more arduous path to the final. After topping their group with three wins out of three, including an impressive 3-0 victory against Argentina, they faced a series of knockout matches that went to extra time and penalties. They defeated Denmark and Russia on penalties, and then overcame England in extra time. This incredible resilience and never-say-die attitude endeared them to fans worldwide. Led by their midfield maestro Luka Modrić, Croatia proved that determination and teamwork can overcome even the toughest challenges. Their journey was a testament to their fighting spirit and tactical acumen, making their appearance in the final all the more inspiring. The contrast in their paths – France's relatively straightforward progression versus Croatia's gritty, come-from-behind victories – set the stage for an epic final clash.

Key Moments and Highlights of the Final

The final itself was a rollercoaster of emotions. Here’s a breakdown of the key moments:

Early Exchanges and Opening Goal

The match started with both teams displaying tactical discipline. France looked to control possession, while Croatia aimed to exploit any gaps in the French defense with their quick transitions. The first big moment came in the 18th minute when France was awarded a free-kick. Antoine Griezmann stepped up to take it, and his delivery into the box was inadvertently headed into his own net by Croatian striker Mario Mandžukić. This own goal gave France an early lead, but it was a bittersweet moment for Mandžukić, who became the first player to score an own goal in a World Cup final. Despite the unfortunate start, Croatia didn't lose heart and continued to press forward, determined to level the score.

Croatia's Fightback and Equalizer

Trailing by a goal, Croatia responded brilliantly. They increased their intensity and began to dominate possession, creating several dangerous opportunities. Their persistence paid off in the 28th minute when Ivan Perišić scored a stunning goal. After a well-worked move, Perišić received the ball on the edge of the box, cut inside, and unleashed a powerful left-footed shot that flew past Hugo Lloris into the bottom corner. The Croatian fans erupted in celebration as their team drew level, showcasing their resilience and attacking prowess. This goal not only leveled the score but also injected a fresh wave of energy into the Croatian side, who continued to push for the lead. The equalizer was a testament to Croatia's fighting spirit and their ability to respond under pressure, making the match even more captivating.

Controversial Penalty and France Regains the Lead

Just when Croatia seemed to be gaining momentum, a controversial incident swung the game back in France's favor. In the 38th minute, a corner was swung into the French penalty area, and the referee, after consulting VAR, awarded a penalty for handball against Ivan Perišić. Replays showed that the decision was debatable, with many arguing that Perišić couldn't have avoided the ball hitting his hand. Nevertheless, Antoine Griezmann stepped up to take the penalty and calmly slotted it home, restoring France's lead. The penalty decision sparked heated debate among fans and pundits, adding another layer of drama to the final. Despite the controversy, France capitalized on the opportunity, regaining the lead and putting Croatia on the back foot once again. This moment proved to be a turning point in the match, shifting the psychological advantage back to the French side.

Second Half Surge: France Extends Their Lead

The second half saw France come out with renewed vigor, looking to extend their lead and put the game beyond Croatia's reach. Their attacking play became more fluid and incisive, and they soon reaped the rewards. In the 59th minute, Paul Pogba scored a beautiful goal, curling a shot into the net after a well-worked team move. This goal gave France a two-goal cushion and put them firmly in control of the match. Shortly after, in the 65th minute, Kylian Mbappé added another goal with a powerful strike from outside the box, becoming only the second teenager after Pelé to score in a World Cup final. These two quickfire goals showcased France's attacking depth and clinical finishing, leaving Croatia with a mountain to climb. The French team's ability to capitalize on their opportunities in the second half effectively sealed their victory, demonstrating their superior quality and tactical execution.

Croatia's Late Response and Final Moments

Despite being three goals down, Croatia refused to give up. Their never-say-die attitude was evident as they continued to fight for every ball. In the 69th minute, Mario Mandžukić capitalized on a mistake by French goalkeeper 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 reduced the deficit to two goals. However, despite their best efforts, they couldn't find a way to break down the French defense again. The final minutes of the match were tense, with both teams battling fiercely, but France managed to hold on to their lead and secure the victory. The final whistle sparked wild celebrations among the French players and fans, as they clinched their second World Cup title. Despite the loss, the Croatian team left the field with their heads held high, having captured the hearts of fans worldwide with their incredible journey and fighting spirit.

The Victory and Its Significance

France's 4-2 victory over Croatia marked their second World Cup title, adding another star to their jersey. The win was a testament to their talented squad, tactical flexibility, and the leadership of coach Didier Deschamps. For France, the victory was not just about winning a trophy; it was a symbol of national pride and unity. The diverse makeup of the French team, with players of different ethnic and cultural backgrounds, reflected the multicultural nature of French society. Their success on the world stage brought the nation together, celebrating their shared identity and values.

For Croatia, despite the defeat, reaching the final was an incredible achievement. Their performance throughout the tournament showcased their resilience, teamwork, and the individual brilliance of players like Luka Modrić. Croatia's journey to the final captured the imagination of fans worldwide, and their fighting spirit earned them widespread admiration. Their success on the world stage brought immense pride to their small nation and inspired a new generation of Croatian footballers. The 2018 World Cup will forever be remembered as a historic moment for Croatian football, regardless of the final result.

Conclusion: A World Cup Final to Remember

The FIFA 2018 World Cup Final was a truly unforgettable match filled with drama, controversy, and moments of brilliance. From the early own goal to the controversial penalty decision, from the stunning goals to the unwavering determination of both teams, this final had it all. France emerged as the champions, but both teams left a lasting impression on the world of football. The match will be remembered for its high scoreline, the individual brilliance of players like Mbappé and Modrić, and the compelling narratives of both teams. Whether you're a fan of France, Croatia, or just a lover of the beautiful game, the 2018 World Cup Final will forever hold a special place in football history. So, there you have it – a recap of one of the most exciting World Cup finals in recent memory, guys! What were your favorite moments? Let me know in the comments below!