FIFA World Cup: Final schedule, TV time and storylines for Croatia vs. France
Two years ago when it hosted the European Championships, France was upset in the final — which was played in Paris — by Portugal.
France is back in the final of a major international tournament, and once again is the favorite to win. Croatia — which is playing in its first-ever World Cup final — is the opponent, and needed penalty kicks in the Round of 16 and quarterfinals, and extra time in the semifinals, in order to get to this point. France, meanwhile, made it look easy getting to Sunday's 2018 World Cup final at the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow.
Despite its status as the established power, France is a youthful team and could be a force to be reckoned with on the international stage for years to come. Croatia's veteran-laden team has been called its "Golden Generation."
While Croatia might be a surprise finalist, the on-field star power is still impressive. Luka Modric — a candidate for the tournament's Golden Ball award — is the key player for Croatia. France's 19-year-old phenom Kylian Mbappe is also in the Golden Ball conversation and the favorite for the tournament's Best Young Player Award.
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