France Lift 2018 FIFA World Cup Trophy, Beat Croatia to Win Their Second Title

France lifted their second football World Cup title as the Didier Deschamps’ men defeated Croatia 4-2 in the final of 2018 FIFA World Cup in front of a packed Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow. With this win, France lifted the coveted trophy after 20 years. Meanwhile, Croatia, who were playing in their maiden final, will have to wait to be crowned champions. It was Mario Mandzukic’s own goal that set the tone for France. Croatia, however, equalised after ten minutes. But France once again found the net before the halftime to take the lead. In the second-half, Croatia conceded two goals as their hopes of winning the title dashed away.

Mandzukic’s error was the first instance of an own goal in a World Cup final. France took the lead in the 18th minute as the ball deflected from Mandzukic’s head following a free-kick. However, much to the respite of Croatia, Ivan Perisic in the 28th minute responded in style to help his side score an equaliser. Just when things looked good for Croatia, Antoine Griezmann converted a penalty in the 38th minute to hand France the lead once again. At the end of the opening half, France were leading 2-1. France vs Croatia 2018 FIFA World Cup Final- As it Happened.

The second-half began on a poor note for Croatia as Paul Pogba found the net in the 59th minute. To make it 3-1 in favour of France. Les Bleus further extend their lead as teenage sensation Kylian Mbappe struck in the 65th to seal the deal for France. Mandzukic though gave Croatian team and fans some hope after an error from France goalkeeper Hugo Lloris, which helped Croatia to cut down the deficit.

As the game moved forward, the scoreline remained 4-2 in favour of France till the referee brought the end to the second half.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 15, 2018 11:07 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).