The 2018 FIFA World Cup concluded with a spectacular finale as France emerged as the champions. The French national team managed to defeat Croatia 4-2 in a thrilling final held at the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow, leaving football fans across the globe in awe of their remarkable performance.
One of the standout players of the tournament was France's Kylian Mbappe. The 19-year-old forward showcased his immense talent, scoring four goals throughout the competition, including a sensational strike in the final. Mbappe's speed, skill, and composure on the ball proved to be a nightmare for the opposition, earning him the coveted FIFA Young Player of the Tournament award.
Croatia's captain, Luka Modric, had an extraordinary World Cup. Despite the disappointment of losing in the final, Modric's performances throughout the tournament were nothing short of exceptional. The midfielder led his team with his impeccable passing, vision, and tireless work rate. Modric was rightly awarded the Golden Ball for being the tournament's best player.
The introduction of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system added a new dimension to the World Cup. While its purpose was to reduce controversial decisions, it generated its fair share of debates. Some believed that the implementation of VAR hindered the flow of matches and disrupted the natural rhythm of the game, while others argued that it increased fairness and accuracy in crucial moments.
The World Cup provided plenty of surprises and upsets, shaking up the tournament and keeping fans on the edge of their seats. Reigning champions Germany faced an early exit in the group stage, while teams like Croatia, Russia, and England exceeded expectations. The knockout rounds were filled with dramatic matches, including last-minute goals and penalty shootouts, showcasing the unpredictable nature of football.
The 2018 World Cup showcased an abundance of goals, thrilling spectators in stadiums and homes worldwide. A total of 169 goals were scored throughout the tournament, making it one of the highest-scoring editions in history. England striker Harry Kane emerged as the top goal-scorer, earning him the Golden Boot with his tally of six goals. Kane's clinical finishing and ability to find the back of the net proved crucial for his team's success in the competition.
Russia hosted the World Cup with style, showcasing their ability to organize and execute a remarkable sporting event. The stadiums were impeccable, the infrastructure was impressive, and the hospitality of the Russian people was widely praised. Overall, the 2018 FIFA World Cup will be remembered as an outstanding tournament that brought joy, excitement, and unity to fans around the globe.