World Cup 2018 Final: Confirmed Lineups & Key Players

The 2018 FIFA World Cup final was an electrifying match that pitted France against Croatia. Football fans across the globe were eager to witness which team would emerge victorious and claim the coveted title. The final took place on July 15, 2018, at the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow, Russia. Before the game, the anticipation surrounding the confirmed lineups was palpable. Understanding the formations and key players selected by both teams was crucial for predicting the flow of the match and identifying potential game-changers. In this article, we will delve deep into the confirmed lineups of both France and Croatia, dissecting the tactical approaches each team adopted and spotlighting the star players who were expected to shine on the grandest stage of football. Whether you're a die-hard football fanatic or a casual observer, this recap will provide you with a comprehensive overview of the strategies and personnel that defined this memorable World Cup final. So, guys, let's dive in and relive the excitement!

France's Starting XI and Tactical Approach

The French national team, led by Didier Deschamps, stepped onto the pitch with a carefully constructed lineup designed to exploit Croatia's weaknesses while solidifying their own defensive strength. The formation typically employed by France during the tournament was a 4-3-3, which provided a balanced approach, ensuring defensive stability and attacking prowess. Hugo Lloris, the captain, started in goal, providing a sense of security and leadership between the posts. The backline consisted of Raphael Varane and Samuel Umtiti as the central defensive partnership, flanked by Benjamin Pavard and Lucas Hernandez as the right and left full-backs, respectively. This defensive quartet was crucial in thwarting Croatia's attacking threats and initiating quick transitions from defense to attack. In the midfield, France boasted a formidable trio of N'Golo Kante, Paul Pogba, and Blaise Matuidi. Kante, known for his exceptional work rate and defensive capabilities, played a pivotal role in shielding the defense and winning back possession. Pogba, with his creative flair and physical presence, orchestrated attacks and provided crucial passes to the forwards. Matuidi, a versatile midfielder, contributed both defensively and offensively, adding dynamism to the team's overall performance. The attacking trident comprised Antoine Griezmann, Olivier Giroud, and Kylian Mbappe. Griezmann, a versatile forward, operated in a free role, linking up play and creating goal-scoring opportunities. Giroud, a target man, provided a physical presence upfront, holding up the ball and bringing others into play. Mbappe, the young sensation, used his blistering pace and dribbling skills to terrorize the Croatian defense, posing a constant threat with his ability to score and create chances. France's tactical approach revolved around a solid defensive structure, quick transitions, and exploiting the pace of Mbappe and the creativity of Griezmann. The midfield was tasked with winning the battle in the center of the park and providing a platform for the forwards to express themselves. Deschamps emphasized discipline and organization, ensuring that the team maintained its shape and remained compact defensively. This tactical setup proved to be highly effective throughout the tournament, culminating in their victory in the final.

Croatia's Starting XI and Tactical Approach

On the other side, Croatia, under the guidance of Zlatko Dalić, showcased resilience and tactical flexibility throughout the tournament. Their journey to the final was marked by overcoming challenging opponents and demonstrating a never-say-die attitude. Croatia's starting lineup reflected Dalić's commitment to experience and tactical balance. Danijel Subašić started in goal, having proven himself as a reliable shot-stopper throughout the tournament, including his penalty-saving heroics in earlier rounds. The defensive line featured Šime Vrsaljko as the right-back, Dejan Lovren and Domagoj Vida as the central defensive pairing, and Ivan Strinić as the left-back. This defensive unit had the crucial task of containing France's potent attack, especially the speed of Mbappe and the guile of Griezmann. The midfield was the heart of the Croatian team, consisting of Luka Modrić, Ivan Rakitić, and Marcelo Brozović. Modrić, the captain and midfield maestro, dictated the tempo of the game with his exceptional passing range and vision. Rakitić, a dynamic midfielder, provided a link between defense and attack, contributing both defensively and offensively. Brozović, known for his tireless running and tactical awareness, added steel to the midfield, breaking up plays and winning back possession. The attacking trio comprised Ante Rebić, Mario Mandžukić, and Ivan Perišić. Rebić, with his pace and direct running, aimed to stretch the French defense. Mandžukić, a seasoned striker, provided a focal point upfront, known for his aerial prowess and ability to hold up the ball. Perišić, a versatile winger, posed a threat with his dribbling skills and ability to cut inside and shoot. Croatia's tactical approach was built on a strong midfield foundation, with Modrić and Rakitić controlling the game's tempo and dictating play. They aimed to maintain possession, patiently build attacks, and exploit any weaknesses in the French defense. Dalić emphasized the importance of teamwork, discipline, and mental strength, instilling a belief in his players that they could overcome any obstacle. Their journey to the final showcased their ability to adapt to different opponents and situations, making them a formidable force to be reckoned with.

Key Player Matchups and Their Impact

Several key player matchups were expected to significantly influence the outcome of the final. One of the most anticipated battles was between France's N'Golo Kante and Croatia's Luka Modrić. Kante's primary role was to disrupt Modrić's influence on the game, preventing him from dictating the tempo and creating scoring opportunities. Kante's relentless work rate and exceptional tackling ability made him a formidable opponent for Modrić, who relied on his vision and passing range to orchestrate Croatia's attacks. Another crucial matchup was between France's Kylian Mbappe and Croatia's Ivan Strinić. Mbappe's blistering pace and dribbling skills posed a significant threat to Strinić, who had to rely on his experience and tactical awareness to contain the young French sensation. Strinić needed support from his fellow defenders to double-team Mbappe and prevent him from cutting inside and unleashing shots on goal. The aerial duels between France's Olivier Giroud and Croatia's Dejan Lovren were also important. Giroud's physical presence and ability to win headers made him a valuable asset for France, while Lovren's strength and aerial prowess were crucial for Croatia in defending set-pieces and crosses. Lovren had to be wary of Giroud's movement and positioning to prevent him from getting on the end of crosses and scoring goals. The midfield battle between France's Paul Pogba and Croatia's Ivan Rakitić was another key aspect of the game. Pogba's creative flair and physical presence were vital for France in controlling the midfield, while Rakitić's dynamism and link-up play were essential for Croatia in transitioning from defense to attack. Both players aimed to assert their dominance in the center of the park and create opportunities for their respective teams.

The Flow of the Match and Key Moments

The match itself was a captivating encounter filled with drama and excitement. France took the lead through an own goal by Mario Mandžukić, but Croatia quickly responded with an equalizer from Ivan Perišić. France regained the lead through a penalty converted by Antoine Griezmann, and they extended their advantage in the second half with goals from Paul Pogba and Kylian Mbappe. Croatia managed to pull one back through Mario Mandžukić, but it wasn't enough to prevent France from securing a 4-2 victory. Key moments in the match included the controversial penalty awarded to France, which sparked debate among fans and pundits alike. The penalty decision was heavily scrutinized, with some arguing that it was a harsh call against Croatia. Mbappe's goal, which made him the second teenager after Pelé to score in a World Cup final, was a significant moment, showcasing his immense talent and potential. Pogba's goal, a well-taken strike from outside the box, demonstrated his ability to contribute in crucial moments. Croatia's resilience and fighting spirit were evident throughout the match, as they refused to give up despite facing a tough opponent. However, France's clinical finishing and tactical discipline ultimately proved to be the difference between the two teams.

Conclusion: France's Triumph and Croatia's Valiant Effort

In conclusion, the 2018 World Cup final was a memorable match that showcased the best of international football. France's well-organized team, led by Didier Deschamps, executed their tactical plan effectively and capitalized on their opportunities. Their solid defense, dynamic midfield, and potent attack proved to be too much for Croatia to handle. Croatia, despite their valiant effort, were unable to overcome France's superiority on the day. However, their journey to the final was a testament to their resilience, teamwork, and fighting spirit. Luka Modrić's exceptional performances throughout the tournament earned him the Golden Ball award, recognizing him as the best player of the competition. The final was a fitting end to an enthralling World Cup, leaving fans with lasting memories of the excitement, drama, and passion that football brings. France's triumph marked their second World Cup title, solidifying their status as one of the world's top footballing nations. The confirmed lineups and tactical approaches of both teams played a crucial role in shaping the outcome of the match, highlighting the importance of strategic planning and player selection in achieving success on the grandest stage of football. So there you have it, guys! A detailed look back at the 2018 World Cup final lineups and how they played out. Hope you enjoyed the trip down memory lane!