France lifted their second World Cup title by defeating Croatia in an absolutely dramatic World Cup final at Moscow yesterday. France drew first blood thanks to an unfortunate own goal by Mario Mandzukic which was also the first ever own goal in a World Cup final. Croatia drew level thanks to a left footed strike from Ivan Perisic. France were then awarded a penalty due to a Perisic handball and Antoine Griezmann converted it to restore the lead for France.
Two fabulous goals from Paul Pogba and Kylian Mbappe in the second half put France 4-1 ahead. However, France goalie Hugo Lloris made a terrible mistake and Mario Mandzukic became only the second player after Netherlands’ Ernie Brandts to score an own goal and a goal in the same World Cup match. France were able to keep the Croats at bay and won 4-2.
Croatian defender Dejan Lovren seemed far from impressed with France’s style of play and this was reflected in his comments about the French team following the match, claiming that France didn’t play football yesterda
“I’m disappointed because we lost the game, we played much, much better football than them, but on the other hand I’m proud of this team and what we have achieved,” said the Liverpool center-back.
“We played beautiful football again. France were one of the favourites to win the World Cup and they did it. I think we were better. They did it another way. They didn’t play football, they waited for their chances and they scored. They had their own tactic and you need to respect that. (They) played the tournament like that, every game, but when you look at all the countries behind us, we’re second.
There’s nothing to talk about now. It’s difficult to describe. Maybe after a week or two, a couple of months… right now, it’s difficult. Some moments I feel sad, some moments I’m happy. Overall, I’m proud.”
Earlier, Eden Hazard and many Belgian players were critical of the way France played when both teams played in the semi-finals.
Perisic did not take the decision to award a penalty to France during the end of the first half too well. He said, “I was sure he (referee) would not give the pen. From my point of view, he [Perisic] could not react.”
In spite of everything, Lovren was proud of the way his team battled in their maiden World Cup final. “It was a critical moment, we came back at 1-1, and then this penalty and then 3-1, 4-1, but event then we didn’t stop playing football, we still believed, we gave everything, and this is why people are proud now in Croatia.”
