World Cup Tops and Flops
VAR KYLIAN MBAPPE
France’s 19-year-old jolt of excitement was a joy to watch throughout the tournament. His confidence, speed, and skill made him a constant threat for opposing defenders and with his electric performances on the field, which saw him bag four goals in the tournament – including one sublime finish. The final, there’s no wonder he’s being heralded as the world’s next big megastar.
The Virtual Assistant Referee system was introduced to much skepticism by fans and even players alike. All in all, it can be said that the system proved its worth over the past month and has gained for itself a lot more support across the footballing landscape.
LUCA MODRIC
He wasn’t been able to help his team to a win in the final, but Croatian wizard Luca Modric will leave Russia as the overwhelming choice of being the tournament’s best and most consistent player. The midfield puppeteer was the conductor behind just about everything coming through the Balkans’ engine room and delighted fans with his guile and metronome-esque influence on his team’s march to the final.
DIDIER DESCHAMPS
The France coach was heavily criticised back home for the way his team has played at times throughout his tenure. All the complaints will disappear after his masterful guidance to the World Cup title. Deschamps, who also lifted the title as a France player in 1998, became only the third man to win the title as a player and as a coach.
It’s not seen as the most welcoming country and it certainly had its fair share of issues leading up to the tournament, but the host nation can be proud of its seamless staging of the world’s biggest sporting event.