World beaters tipped to be just magnifique
FRANCE have been tipped to start a period of dominance after winning their second World Cup.
Les Bleus lifted the trophy after beating Croatia 4-2 in an entertaining final in Moscow.
An own goal from Mario Mandzukic was cancelled out by Ivan Perisic - but Antoine Griezmann’s controversial penalty and goals from Paul Pogba and Kylian Mbappe put France in charge before Mandzukic pulled one back for Croatia.
Mbappe became the first teenager to score in a World Cup final since Pele in 1958 and, with eight of France’s starting line-up aged under 28, former England captain Rio Ferdinand has tipped them to get even better.
He said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for this squad now.
“Think of the players they have left behind.
“Anthony Martial, players like that. Karim Benzema did not get on the flight.
“They have a deep squad and they have a team which now knows how to win.”
Croatia put in an impressive performance in the first half but Ferdinand believes France boss Didier Deschamps deserved praise for his side’s improvement.
He added: “Croatia deserve credit for the way they attacked the game, especially in the first half.
“A couple of decisions did not go their way and they will feel hard done by.
“France, whatever Deschamps said at half-time it worked. The way they came out in the second half, they were fantastic.”
Griezmann was struggling to take in what he had achieved but was looking forward to sharing the success.
The Atletico Madrid forward said: “Frankly and honestly I don’t realise yet what it is to be a world champion). The World Cup is a lot...
“We did something incredible. We don’t realise it yet but our children will be glad to carry our names.
“We made history, we are going to enjoy it and we are going to see our families and party tonight with them.
“Then tomorrow the same, we are going to party with the French people.”
Deschamps was bombarded by his players as he did his post-match press conference in Moscow.
They threw water and beer around and sang “Didier Deschamps”, while some stood on the press conference table and hugged him before shouting “Vive la France.”
Deschamps said: “They are young and happy. They are crazy.”
MIDFIELDER Luka Modric was unable to guide Croatia to World Cup final glory - but won the Golden Ball award after being voted the tournament’s best player, beating off competition from Belgium playmaker Eden Hazard and Griezmann.