The Final Four Battle for a Spot to Play for the World Cup.
Photo courtesy: FIFA
FRANCE ADVANCES PAST BELGIUM
Photo courtesy: FIFA
Once again, like in previous games France got the lead and never relinquished it, winning 1-0 over Belgium. It was a hard-fought, physical and emotional game that kept going back-and-forth from the start. The goalies for both teams had to make incredible stops to keep the game tied until in the 51st minute. A goal by France’s Samuel Umtiti was the difference and all they needed to secure a spot in the Final this Sunday.
France last won the title in 1998 when they beat Brazil 3-0 in a World Cup they hosted.
Belgium will face England on Saturday, July 14th to battle for the third place spot.
Croatia stuns England in Extra Time
Photo courtesy: FIFA
Croatia went undefeated in their group and beat both Spain and Russia in matches that went to penalty kicks. Their semi-final game against England also needed two periods of extra time, but the match ended before penalties. The game started with a remarkable free kick goal in the opening minutes by Trippier of England. Croatia put the pressure on and in the 68th minute Persic tied the game at 1-1. It stayed scoreless until the decisive moment came in the 109th minute of extra time. Striker Mario Mandzukic found the back of the net and placed Croatia in the Final versus France.
Croatia will be playing in their first ever Final this Sunday.
Up next, the preview and prediction of the 2018 World Cup Final between Croatia and France on Sunday, July 15th.
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