Russia 2018
France triumphant in ravishing Russia
(FIFA.com)
16 Jul 2018
- France crowned World Cup champions for second time, Croatia claim second
- Modric wins adidas Golden Ball, Kane takes home adidas Golden Boot
- Bronze for Belgium, England finish fourth
The 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia™ thrilled from beginning to end. The 21st edition of the world finals also produced countless moments that will endure in the collective memory of those who love the beautiful game. From Kaliningrad to Ekaterinburg from Saint Petersburg to Sochi, there were smiles and celebrations aplenty as millions came together to enjoy what was a true festival of football. There were goals aplenty: the first and only goalless draw at Russia 2018 came after 36 matches, which was the latest for a single edition in history.
France were crowned champions for the second time in history and for the first since they were hosts in 1998 after defeating Croatia 4-2 in what will go down as one of the most thrilling World Cup finals ever. Nineteen-year-old Kylian Mbappe became the second teenager in history to score in a World Cup Final, following in the footsteps of Pele who did so as a 17-year-old in 1958. Goals and performances from midfielder Paul Pogba and forward Antoine Griezmann also proved vital in helping Les Bleus become world champions once more.
Russia 2018: Best Final Photos
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France v Croatia - 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Final
15 Jul 2018
MOSCOW, RUSSIA - JULY 15: Paul Pogba of France celebrates with the World Cup Trophy following his sides victory in the 2018 FIFA World Cup Final between France and Croatia at Luzhniki Stadium on July 15, 2018 in Moscow, Russia. (Photo by David Ramos - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)
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Olivier Giroud of France celebrates with the World Cup Trophy
15 Jul 2018
MOSCOW, RUSSIA - JULY 15: Olivier Giroud of France celebrates with the World Cup Trophy and his teammates following his sides victory in the 2018 FIFA World Cup Final between France and Croatia at Luzhniki Stadium on July 15, 2018 in Moscow, Russia. (Photo by Matthias Hangst/Getty Images)
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France v Croatia - 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Final
15 Jul 2018
MOSCOW, RUSSIA - JULY 15: Hugo Lloris of France lifts the World Cup trophy to celebrate with his teammates after the 2018 FIFA World Cup Final between France and Croatia at Luzhniki Stadium on July 15, 2018 in Moscow, Russia. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)
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Olivier Giroud of France celebrates following his sides victory in the 2018 FIFA World Cup Final
15 Jul 2018
MOSCOW, RUSSIA - JULY 15: Olivier Giroud of France celebrates following his sides victory in the 2018 FIFA World Cup Final between France and Croatia at Luzhniki Stadium on July 15, 2018 in Moscow, Russia. (Photo by Matthias Hangst/Getty Images)
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France v Croatia - 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Final
15 Jul 2018
MOSCOW, RUSSIA - JULY 15: Antoine Griezmann of France celebrates with the World Cup trophy following the 2018 FIFA World Cup Final between France and Croatia at Luzhniki Stadium on July 15, 2018 in Moscow, Russia. (Photo by Matthias Hangst/Getty Images)
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France v Croatia - 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Final
15 Jul 2018
MOSCOW, RUSSIA - JULY 15: Paul Pogba of France kisses the World Cup trophy following the 2018 FIFA World Cup Final between France and Croatia at Luzhniki Stadium on July 15, 2018 in Moscow, Russia. (Photo by Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images)
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France players celebrate winning the World Cup following the 2018 FIFA World Cup Final
15 Jul 2018
MOSCOW, RUSSIA - JULY 15: France players celebrate winning the World Cup following the 2018 FIFA World Cup Final between France and Croatia at Luzhniki Stadium on July 15, 2018 in Moscow, Russia. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)
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Samuel Umtiti of France celebrates following his sides victory in the 2018 FIFA World Cup Final
15 Jul 2018
MOSCOW, RUSSIA - JULY 15: Samuel Umtiti of France celebrates following his sides victory in the 2018 FIFA World Cup Final between France and Croatia at Luzhniki Stadium on July 15, 2018 in Moscow, Russia. (Photo by Matthias Hangst/Getty Images)
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France v Croatia - 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Final
15 Jul 2018
MOSCOW, RUSSIA - JULY 15: Kylian Mbappe of France receives the Best Young Player award following the 2018 FIFA World Cup Final between France and Croatia at Luzhniki Stadium on July 15, 2018 in Moscow, Russia. (Photo by Clive Rose/Getty Images)
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Paul Pogba of France celebrates victory following the 2018 FIFA World Cup Final
15 Jul 2018
MOSCOW, RUSSIA - JULY 15: Paul Pogba of France celebrates victory following the 2018 FIFA World Cup Final between France and Croatia at Luzhniki Stadium on July 15, 2018 in Moscow, Russia. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)
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Luka Modric of Croatia and Kylian Mbappe of France pose respectively with their the adidas Golden Ball and with the FIFA Young Player award
15 Jul 2018
MOSCOW, RUSSIA - JULY 15: Luka Modric of Croatia and Kylian Mbappe of France pose respectively with their the adidas Golden Ball and with the FIFA Young Player award following the 2018 FIFA World Cup Final between France and Croatia at Luzhniki Stadium on July 15, 2018 in Moscow, Russia. (Photo by Lars Baron - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)
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France v Croatia - 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Final
15 Jul 2018
MOSCOW, RUSSIA - JULY 15: Luka Modric of Croatia poses with his Golden Ball award after the 2018 FIFA World Cup Final between France and Croatia at Luzhniki Stadium on July 15, 2018 in Moscow, Russia. (Photo by Matthias Hangst/Getty Images)
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Artist Nicky Jam performs during the closing ceremony prior to the 2018 FIFA World Cup Final
15 Jul 2018
MOSCOW, RUSSIA - JULY 15: Artist Nicky Jam performs during the closing ceremony prior to the 2018 FIFA World Cup Final between France and Croatia at Luzhniki Stadium on July 15, 2018 in Moscow, Russia. (Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images)
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Former German International Footballer, Philipp Lahm and Philanthropist, Natalia Vodianova present the 2018 FIFA World Cup Original Trophy
15 Jul 2018
MOSCOW, RUSSIA - JULY 15: Former German International Footballer, Philipp Lahm and Philanthropist, Natalia Vodianova present the 2018 FIFA World Cup Original Trophy ahead of the 2018 FIFA World Cup Final between France and Croatia at Luzhniki Stadium on July 15, 2018 in Moscow, Russia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
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Former German International Footballer, Philipp Lahm presents the 2018 FIFA World Cup Original Trophy ahead of the 2018 FIFA World Cup Final
15 Jul 2018
MOSCOW, RUSSIA - JULY 15: Former German International Footballer, Philipp Lahm presents the 2018 FIFA World Cup Original Trophy ahead of the 2018 FIFA World Cup Final between France and Croatia at Luzhniki Stadium on July 15, 2018 in Moscow, Russia. (Photo by Mike Hewitt - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)
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France v Croatia - 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Final
15 Jul 2018
MOSCOW, RUSSIA - JULY 15: Mario Mandzukic of Croatia scores an own goal to put France in front 1-0 during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Final between France and Croatia at Luzhniki Stadium on July 15, 2018 in Moscow, Russia. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)
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Paul Pogba and Blaise Matuidi of France celebrates after Mario Mandzukic of Croatia scores an own goal
15 Jul 2018
MOSCOW, RUSSIA - JULY 15: Paul Pogba and Blaise Matuidi of France celebrates after Mario Mandzukic of Croatia scores an own goal for France's first goal during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Final between France and Croatia at Luzhniki Stadium on July 15, 2018 in Moscow, Russia. (Photo by Matthias Hangst/Getty Images)
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Croatia fan looks on ahead of the 2018 FIFA World Cup Final
15 Jul 2018
MOSCOW, RUSSIA - JULY 15: A Croatia fan enjoys the pre match atmosphere prior to the 2018 FIFA World Cup Final between France and Croatia at Luzhniki Stadium on July 15, 2018 in Moscow, Russia. (Photo by Matthias Hangst/Getty Images)
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France fans looks on ahead of the 2018 FIFA World Cup Final
15 Jul 2018
MOSCOW, RUSSIA - JULY 15: France fans enjoy the pre match atmosphere the 2018 FIFA World Cup Final between France and Croatia at Luzhniki Stadium on July 15, 2018 in Moscow, Russia. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)
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France fans enjoy the pre match atmosphere prior to the 2018 FIFA World Cup Final
15 Jul 2018
MOSCOW, RUSSIA - JULY 15: France fans enjoy the pre match atmosphere prior to the 2018 FIFA World Cup Final between France and Croatia at Luzhniki Stadium on July 15, 2018 in Moscow, Russia. (Photo by Clive Rose/Getty Images)
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Ivan Perisic of Croatia looks dejected following the 2018 FIFA World Cup Final
15 Jul 2018
MOSCOW, RUSSIA - JULY 15: Ivan Perisic of Croatia looks dejected following the 2018 FIFA World Cup Final between France and Croatia at Luzhniki Stadium on July 15, 2018 in Moscow, Russia. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)
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Hugo Lloris of France looks dejected after Ivan Perisic of Croatia scores his team's first goal
15 Jul 2018
MOSCOW, RUSSIA - JULY 15: Hugo Lloris of France looks dejected after Ivan Perisic of Croatia scores his team's first goal pass to make the score 1-1 during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Final between France and Croatia at Luzhniki Stadium on July 15, 2018 in Moscow, Russia. (Photo by Clive Rose/Getty Images)
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France fans celebrate during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Final between France and Croatia
15 Jul 2018
MOSCOW, RUSSIA - JULY 15: France fans celebrate during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Final between France and Croatia at Luzhniki Stadium on July 15, 2018 in Moscow, Russia. (Photo by David Ramos - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)
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Mario Mandzukic of Croatia scores an own goal from Antoine Griezmann of France's free-kick
15 Jul 2018
MOSCOW, RUSSIA - JULY 15: Mario Mandzukic of Croatia scores an own goal from Antoine Griezmann of France's free-kick for France's first goal during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Final between France and Croatia at Luzhniki Stadium on July 15, 2018 in Moscow, Russia. (Photo by Pool/Getty Images)
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France v Croatia - 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Final
15 Jul 2018
MOSCOW, RUSSIA - JULY 15: Artist Will Smith performs during the closing ceremony prior to the 2018 FIFA World Cup Final between France and Croatia at Luzhniki Stadium on July 15, 2018 in Moscow, Russia. (Photo by Matthias Hangst/Getty Images)
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Domagoj Vida of Croatia reacts during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Final
15 Jul 2018
MOSCOW, RUSSIA - JULY 15: Domagoj Vida of Croatia reacts during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Final between France and Croatia at Luzhniki Stadium on July 15, 2018 in Moscow, Russia. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)
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Defining moments
Giants fall in Kazan
Kazan Arena witnessed the elimination of multiple World Cup heavyweights. Holders Germany, for example, were defeated 2-0 by Korea Republic there and failed to progress from the group stage for the first time in the country’s proud World Cup history. The next giant to fall was Lionel Messi’s Argentina in the Round of 16. In one of the most thrilling matches of the tournament, France - led by the exhilarating youngster Mbappe - saw off La Albiceleste 4-3. Brazil, Argentina's long-time South American rivals, were next, as Neymar and Co were beaten by an impressive Belgium side in the quarter-finals.
Surprise packages
Some nations scaled new heights at Russia 2018. The Red Devils of Belgium had their best-ever World Cup, finishing in third and eclipsing their fourth-place finish in 1986. Roberto Martinez’s side, who finished as the top scoring team (16), were one of three sides - the others being Uruguay and Croatia - who emerged from the group stage with maximum points. Russia’s quarter-final finish was their first at that stage since the former Soviet Union did it in 1970. Sweden reached the last eight for the first time since USA 1994, while Croatia contested the country’s first ever World Cup Final.
Fans, hosts create carnival atmosphere
Throughout the various FIFA Fan Fests, the streets of all the Host Cities and beyond and of course in the stadiums themselves, the fans made this a World Cup to treasure. Those supporters came with their chants, their colours and above all, an unrelenting support for their teams, and they were met in turn by warm and welcoming locals.
Fans at Russia 2018
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Brazil v Switzerland: Group E - 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia
06 Jul 2018
ROSTOV-ON-DON, RUSSIA - JUNE 17: General view inside the stadium during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group E match between Brazil and Switzerland at Rostov Arena on June 17, 2018 in Rostov-on-Don, Russia. (Photo by Lars Baron - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)
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Russia v Saudi Arabia: Group A - 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia
04 Jul 2018
MOSCOW, RUSSIA - JUNE 14: A Russia fan shows their support prior to the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Group A match between Russia and Saudi Arabia at Luzhniki Stadium on June 14, 2018 in Moscow, Russia. (Photo by Lars Baron - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)
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Spain v Russia: Round of 16 - 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia
06 Jul 2018
MOSCOW, RUSSIA - JULY 01: A Russia fan enjoys the pre match atmosphere prior to the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Round of 16 match between Spain and Russia at Luzhniki Stadium on July 1, 2018 in Moscow, Russia. (Photo by Clive Rose/Getty Images)
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Uruguay v Saudi Arabia: Group A - 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia
06 Jul 2018
ROSTOV-ON-DON, RUSSIA - JUNE 20: Uruguay fans show their support during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group A match between Uruguay and Saudi Arabia at Rostov Arena on June 20, 2018 in Rostov-on-Don, Russia. (Photo by Mike Hewitt - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)
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Russia v Saudi Arabia: Group A - 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia
06 Jul 2018
MOSCOW, RUSSIA - JUNE 14: A Saudi Arabia fan looks on prior to the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Group A match between Russia and Saudi Arabia at Luzhniki Stadium on June 14, 2018 in Moscow, Russia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
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Spain v Russia: Round of 16 - 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia
06 Jul 2018
MOSCOW, RUSSIA - JULY 01: Fans enjoy the pre-match atmosphere ahead of the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Round of 16 match between Spain and Russia at Luzhniki Stadium on July 1, 2018 in Moscow, Russia. (Photo by Mike Hewitt - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)
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Portugal v Morocco: Group B - 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia
07 Jul 2018
MOSCOW, RUSSIA - JUNE 20: Morocco fans enjoy the pre match atmosphere prior to the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group B match between Portugal and Morocco at Luzhniki Stadium on June 20, 2018 in Moscow, Russia. (Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images)
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Japan v Poland: Group H - 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia
06 Jul 2018
VOLGOGRAD, RUSSIA - JUNE 28: Japan fans enjoy the pre match atmosphere prior to the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group H match between Japan and Poland at Volgograd Arena on June 28, 2018 in Volgograd, Russia. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images)
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Portugal v Morocco: Group B - 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia
06 Jul 2018
MOSCOW, RUSSIA - JUNE 20: Morocco fans enjoy the atmosphere prior to the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group B match between Portugal and Morocco at Luzhniki Stadium on June 20, 2018 in Moscow, Russia. (Photo by Simon Hofmann - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)
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Denmark v France: Group C - 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia
06 Jul 2018
MOSCOW, RUSSIA - JUNE 26: A fan reacts during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group C match between Denmark and France at Luzhniki Stadium on June 26, 2018 in Moscow, Russia. (Photo by Matthias Hangst/Getty Images)
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France v Australia: Group C - 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia
04 Jul 2018
KAZAN, RUSSIA - JUNE 16: An Australia fan enjoys the pre match atmosphere prior to the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group C match between France and Australia at Kazan Arena on June 16, 2018 in Kazan, Russia. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)
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Senegal v Colombia: Group H - 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia
04 Jul 2018
SAMARA, RUSSIA - JUNE 28: Senegal fans enjoy the pre match atmosphere prior to the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group H match between Senegal and Colombia at Samara Arena on June 28, 2018 in Samara, Russia. (Photo by Simon Hofmann - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)
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Russia v Egypt: Group A - 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia
06 Jul 2018
SAINT PETERSBURG, RUSSIA - JUNE 19: A fan of Egypt looks on during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group A match between Russia and Egypt at Saint Petersburg Stadium on June 19, 2018 in Saint Petersburg, Russia. (Photo by Francois Nel/Getty Images)
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Iran v Portugal: Group B - 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia
06 Jul 2018
SARANSK, RUSSIA - JUNE 25: An Iran supporter shows his emotions following defeat during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group B match between Iran and Portugal at Mordovia Arena on June 25, 2018 in Saransk, Russia. (Photo by Jan Kruger/Getty Images)
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Denmark v France: Group C - 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia
06 Jul 2018
MOSCOW, RUSSIA - JUNE 26: Denmark fans enjoy the pre match atmosphere prior to the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group C match between Denmark and France at Luzhniki Stadium on June 26, 2018 in Moscow, Russia. (Photo by Clive Rose/Getty Images)
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France v Peru: Group C - 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia
06 Jul 2018
YEKATERINBURG, RUSSIA - JUNE 21: A Peru fan enjoys the pre match atmosphere prior to the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group C match between France and Peru at Ekaterinburg Arena on June 21, 2018 in Yekaterinburg, Russia. (Photo by Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images)
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France v Peru: Group C - 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia
06 Jul 2018
YEKATERINBURG, RUSSIA - JUNE 21: Peru fans enjoy the pre match atmosphere prior to the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group C match between France and Peru at Ekaterinburg Arena on June 21, 2018 in Yekaterinburg, Russia. (Photo by Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images)
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Australia v Peru: Group C - 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia
04 Jul 2018
SOCHI, RUSSIA - JUNE 26: Peru fans enjoy the atmosphere during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group C match between Australia and Peru at Fisht Stadium on June 26, 2018 in Sochi, Russia. (Photo by Stuart Franklin - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)
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France v Australia: Group C - 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia
06 Jul 2018
KAZAN, RUSSIA - JUNE 16: A France fan enjoys the pre match atmosphere prior to the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group C match between France and Australia at Kazan Arena on June 16, 2018 in Kazan, Russia. (Photo by Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images)
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France v Peru: Group C - 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia
06 Jul 2018
YEKATERINBURG, RUSSIA - JUNE 21: A Peru fan looks dejected following their sides defeat in the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group C match between France and Peru at Ekaterinburg Arena on June 21, 2018 in Yekaterinburg, Russia. (Photo by Lars Baron - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)
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Argentina v Iceland: Group D - 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia
04 Jul 2018
MOSCOW, RUSSIA - JUNE 16: An Argentina fan poses outside the stadium prior to the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group D match between Argentina and Iceland at Spartak Stadium on June 16, 2018 in Moscow, Russia. (Photo by Clive Rose/Getty Images)
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France v Argentina: Round of 16 - 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia
06 Jul 2018
KAZAN, RUSSIA - JUNE 30: An Argentina fan enjoys the pre match atmosphere prior to the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Round of 16 match between France and Argentina at Kazan Arena on June 30, 2018 in Kazan, Russia. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)
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Costa Rica v Serbia: Group E - 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia
06 Jul 2018
SAMARA, RUSSIA - JUNE 17: A fan enjoys the pre match atmosphere during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group E match between Costa Rica and Serbia at Samara Arena on June 17, 2018 in Samara, Russia. (Photo by Simon Hofmann - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)
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France v Argentina: Round of 16 - 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia
06 Jul 2018
KAZAN, RUSSIA - JUNE 30: An Argentina fan enjoys the pre match atmosphere prior to the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Round of 16 match between France and Argentina at Kazan Arena on June 30, 2018 in Kazan, Russia. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)
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Iceland v Croatia: Group D - 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia
04 Jul 2018
ROSTOV-ON-DON, RUSSIA - JUNE 26: Iceland fan shows his support during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group D match between Iceland and Croatia at Rostov Arena on June 26, 2018 in Rostov-on-Don, Russia. (Photo by Maja Hitij - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)
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Mexico v Sweden: Group F - 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia
04 Jul 2018
YEKATERINBURG, RUSSIA - JUNE 27: Mexico fans enjoy the pre match atmosphere prior to the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group F match between Mexico and Sweden at Ekaterinburg Arena on June 27, 2018 in Yekaterinburg, Russia. (Photo by Mike Hewitt - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)
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Croatia v Nigeria: Group D - 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia
06 Jul 2018
KALININGRAD, RUSSIA - JUNE 16: A fan poses for a photo ahead of the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group D match between Croatia and Nigeria at Kaliningrad Stadium on June 16, 2018 in Kaliningrad, Russia. (Photo by Jamie Squire - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)
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Nigeria Fan Feature - 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia
06 Jul 2018
MOSCOW, RUSSIA - JUNE 22: (EDITORS NOTE: This image has been processed using digital filters) Nigeria fans pose during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia at Sheremetyevo Airport on June 22, 2018 in Moscow, Russia. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)
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Brazil v Costa Rica: Group E - 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia
06 Jul 2018
SAINT PETERSBURG, RUSSIA - JUNE 22: A Costa Rica fan enjoys the pre match atmosphere during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group E match between Brazil and Costa Rica at Saint Petersburg Stadium on June 22, 2018 in Saint Petersburg, Russia. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images)
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Brazil v Switzerland: Group E - 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia
06 Jul 2018
ROSTOV-ON-DON, RUSSIA - JUNE 17: A Brazil fan fan enjoys the pre match atmosphere prior to the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group E match between Brazil and Switzerland at Rostov Arena on June 17, 2018 in Rostov-on-Don, Russia. (Photo by Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images)
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Serbia v Brazil: Group E - 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia
04 Jul 2018
MOSCOW, RUSSIA - JUNE 27: A Brazil fan enjoys the pre match atmosphere prior to the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group E match between Serbia and Brazil at Spartak Stadium on June 27, 2018 in Moscow, Russia. (Photo by Stuart Franklin - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)
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Brazil v Belgium: Quarter Final - 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia
06 Jul 2018
KAZAN, RUSSIA - JULY 06: Brazil fans enjoy the pre match atmosphere prior to the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Quarter Final match between Brazil and Belgium at Kazan Arena on July 6, 2018 in Kazan, Russia. (Photo by Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images)
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Senegal v Colombia: Group H - 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia
04 Jul 2018
SAMARA, RUSSIA - JUNE 28: A Senegal fan enjoys the pre match atmosphere prior to the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group H match between Senegal and Colombia at Samara Arena on June 28, 2018 in Samara, Russia. (Photo by Simon Hofmann - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)
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Korea Republic v Germany: Group F - 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia
04 Jul 2018
KAZAN, RUSSIA - JUNE 27: A Germany fan enjoys the pre match atmosphere prior to the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group F match between Korea Republic and Germany at Kazan Arena on June 27, 2018 in Kazan, Russia. (Photo by Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images)
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Korea Republic v Germany: Group F - 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia
04 Jul 2018
KAZAN, RUSSIA - JUNE 27: A Germany fan enjoys the pre match atmosphere prior to the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group F match between Korea Republic and Germany at Kazan Arena on June 27, 2018 in Kazan, Russia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
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Sweden v Switzerland: Round of 16 - 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia
06 Jul 2018
SAINT PETERSBURG, RUSSIA - JULY 03: Sweden fans celebrate victory following the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Round of 16 match between Sweden and Switzerland at Saint Petersburg Stadium on July 3, 2018 in Saint Petersburg, Russia. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)
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Uruguay v Portugal: Round of 16 - 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia
07 Jul 2018
SOCHI, RUSSIA - JUNE 30: A Portugal fan enjoys the pre match atmosphere prior to the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Round of 16 match between Uruguay and Portugal at Fisht Stadium on June 30, 2018 in Sochi, Russia. (Photo by Francois Nel/Getty Images)
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Iran v Portugal: Group B - 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia
07 Jul 2018
SARANSK, RUSSIA - JUNE 25: Iran fans enjoy the pre match atmosphere prior to the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group B match between Iran and Portugal at Mordovia Arena on June 25, 2018 in Saransk, Russia. (Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images)
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Sweden v Switzerland: Round of 16 - 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia
06 Jul 2018
SAINT PETERSBURG, RUSSIA - JULY 03: Sweden fans show their support during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Round of 16 match between Sweden and Switzerland at Saint Petersburg Stadium on July 3, 2018 in Saint Petersburg, Russia. (Photo by Richard Heathcote/Getty Images)
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Korea Republic v Germany: Group F - 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia
04 Jul 2018
KAZAN, RUSSIA - JUNE 27: A Germany fan enjoys the pre match atmosphere prior to the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group F match between Korea Republic and Germany at Kazan Arena on June 27, 2018 in Kazan, Russia. (Photo by Lars Baron - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)
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Brazil v Belgium: Quarter Final - 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia
06 Jul 2018
KAZAN, RUSSIA - JULY 06: Belgium fans show their support during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Quarter Final match between Brazil and Belgium at Kazan Arena on July 6, 2018 in Kazan, Russia. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)
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Panama v Tunisia: Group G - 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia
04 Jul 2018
SARANSK, RUSSIA - JUNE 28: A Panama fan enjoys the pre match atmosphere ahead of the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group G match between Panama and Tunisia at Mordovia Arena on June 28, 2018 in Saransk, Russia. (Photo by Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images)
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Belgium v Tunisia: Group G - 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia
06 Jul 2018
MOSCOW, RUSSIA - JUNE 23: A Tunisia fan enjoys the pre match atmosphere during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group G match between Belgium and Tunisia at Spartak Stadium on June 23, 2018 in Moscow, Russia. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)
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Portugal v Morocco: Group B - 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia
07 Jul 2018
MOSCOW, RUSSIA - JUNE 20: A Morocco fan enjoys the pre match atmosphere prior to the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group B match between Portugal and Morocco at Luzhniki Stadium on June 20, 2018 in Moscow, Russia. (Photo by Simon Hofmann - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)
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Colombia v England: Round of 16 - 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia
06 Jul 2018
MOSCOW, RUSSIA - JULY 03: England fans enjoy the pre match atmosphere prior to the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Round of 16 match between Colombia and England at Spartak Stadium on July 3, 2018 in Moscow, Russia. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)
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Colombia v England: Round of 16 - 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia
04 Jul 2018
MOSCOW, RUSSIA - JULY 03: Colombia fans enjoy the pre match atmosphere prior to the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Round of 16 match between Colombia and England at Spartak Stadium on July 3, 2018 in Moscow, Russia. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)
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Portugal v Morocco: Group B - 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia
07 Jul 2018
MOSCOW, RUSSIA - JUNE 20: Morocco fans enjoy the pre match atmosphere prior to the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group B match between Portugal and Morocco at Luzhniki Stadium on June 20, 2018 in Moscow, Russia. (Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images)
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Colombia v England: Round of 16 - 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia
06 Jul 2018
MOSCOW, RUSSIA - JULY 03: A Colombia fan enjoys the pre match atmosphere prior to the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Round of 16 match between Colombia and England at Spartak Stadium on July 3, 2018 in Moscow, Russia. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)
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Iran v Portugal: Group B - 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia
07 Jul 2018
SARANSK, RUSSIA - JUNE 25: An Portugal fan enjoys the pre match atmosphere prior to the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group B match between Iran and Portugal at Mordovia Arena on June 25, 2018 in Saransk, Russia. (Photo by Jan Kruger/Getty Images)
© Getty Images
Breakout stars
If there were still some football fans who were unfamiliar with Mbappe before France and Argentina’s Round of 16 tie, they certainly knew all about him by the time the final whistle sounded. The 19-year-old starred with his electrifying pace, skill and finishing ability in Les Bleus’ epic 4-3 comeback win before becoming the second teenager to score in World Cup Final history in France’s 4-2 win over Croatia. Denis Cheryshev also had a tournament he will never forget. The Russia star bagged a brace in the hosts’ 5-0 Opening Match win over Saudi Arabia, put in two Man of the Match performances and scored a brilliant goal in their quarter-final defeat at the hands of the tournament's runners-up. Colombia's 23-year-old defender Yerry Mina was crucial in their run to the Round of 16, showcasing his aerial prowess to score in three consecutive matches for Los Cafeteros, a feat any forward would be content with, let alone a centre-back.
Legends bid farewell
Several of the game's greats brought an end to their World Cup stories. Javier Mascherano played his 20th and final World Cup match for Argentina, Japan’s Keisuke Honda his 11th and last game for the Samurai Blue. Scorer of the winning goal in the 2010 Final, Andres Iniesta’s last outing in a Spain jersey was in La Roja’s penalty shootout defeat by the hosts in the Round of 16. As for Mexico stalwart Rafael Marquez, he became just the third player to play in five World Cups.
VAR makes its bow
Russia 2018 was historic for many reasons, but in the field of football technology it was the dawn of a new era with the introduction and use of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR). History was made in France’s 2-1 win over Australia, when Griezmann scored the first penalty kick resulting from a VAR review.
Stat of the tournament
19 - There were 19 goals scored in second-half injury time at Russia 2018, setting a new World Cup record. Neymar also scored the latest ever goal at a World Cup in regular time (90’+7’) when he doubled Brazil’s lead in their 2-0 win over Costa Rica. [Editor’s note: Injury time has been codified officially since 1998]
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