“Its coming home”, echoed many English pundits in the knock-out rounds of what’s been an unpredictable World Cup so far. “The Croatian side will be tired”, thought many pundits going into the England v Croatia semi-final. Indeed, many spectators thought the same, given that the Croatian side came from two successive matches that went to penalties. However, Luka Modric (33), Real Madrid’s linchpin and Croatia’s captain, had a separate agenda.
Hailing from a small nation with a population of 5 million people, the Croatian side felt they had something to prove going up against a favoured England side. “They should be more humble and respect their opponents more.”, addressed the Croatian no.10 to the English punditry that wrote them off before the match started. This was a Croatian side that topped a group that had Nigeria and Iceland and put three goals past regularly touted favourites, Argentina.
The Croatian heroics kicked off in the second half, with an improved tempo to their attack. The two goals scored by a Perisic (29) poker in the 68th minute, and a piercing Mandzukic (32) strike in the 109th minute, were clear evidence of Croatia’s intent.
Croatia will go into their very first final against a highly-favoured French side. A French team, which many fans have joked, could field a starting 33 given their impressive squad depth. However, it has been high-flying youngster Kylian Mbappe (19) who has stood out for France, netting 3 goals in the competition so far. France will look to duplicate their 1998 heroics and win their second ever World Cup trophy. The clash will take place this Sunday
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