France vs Croatia: Here are 5 players you must key an eye on in the 2018 World Cup final
Croatia can cause a massive upset but France are favourites as Moscow basked in sweltering summer sun and the world’s spotlight on the big day of the World Cup final.
The two nations will lock horns in the mega event’s final on Sunday
A nation of just over four millions are 90 minutes away from what could be a pleasant shock for them if Croatia beat France at the Luzhniki Stadium (kick off 1500GMT) on Sunday to win a first-ever World Cup.
"If Croatia can win then we will all be able to dream of doing it," Belgium coach Roberto Martinez said on the eve of the game, spelling out that the dominance of the tournament by the larger, established footballing super powers could be at an end.
The inspiration of Luka Modric, the anchor provided by Ivan Rakitic and attacking prowess of Mario Mandzukic will all be needed again if Croatia are to continue their fairytale run and lift the gold-plated trophy.
They will also have to dig deep to overcome the certain fatigue that has comes with having been forced into extra time in their last three matches, winning two on post-match penalties.
While Croatia probably have more support, because of its maiden final and for being a country so small on brink of a massive history, France will not succumb to his pressure.
Here are the five players to watch out for in France vs Croatia, 2018 World Cup final:
1. Luka Modric (Croatia)
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The final is all about the strength of their centre midfield and Croatia have Modric, who even has two scores this World Cup. Ignoring his game, people have talked more about his height (5ft 8in) but this has hardly affected his morale. “I have always ignored such talks. I have never doubted myself even if others did, I always believed I could get to where I am today and thank God this came true. You don't have to be a giant to play football, I'm happy with where I am. I am happy with where I am and I never cared what anyone else said, it only further motivated me,” he said. PC: EFE
2. Kylian Mbappe (France)
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The 19-year-old French attacker will become just the third teenager in the history of football to feature in a World Cup final. Going into the mega game, he already has three goals; out of which, two he had scored against Argentina to take France into the quarter-final. Mbappe has impressed with his pace, dribbling and finishing skills and already has been linked to Real Madrid this summer as Cristiano Ronaldo’s replacement. PC: EFE
3. Hugo Lloris (France)
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The French skipper has been one of the best in business throughout the tournament and has played all France’s games leading up to Sunday’s final. Lloris has made crucial saves and will have to be at his absolute best to negate the deadly counterattacks of Croatia. PC: AFP
4. Sime Vrsaljko (Croatia)
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The Croatian right-back has been one of the most underrated players this World Cup. He has averaged 3.2 clearances and 2 interceptions per match with a 79% successful pass percentage. He has been a vital attacking passage and it was his near-perfect cross that led to Croatia’s equalizer in the semifinal against England. PC: AFP
5. Antoine Griezmann (France)
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