FIFA World Cup 2018, Final Preview: A Look at What to Expect in the Title Showdown between France and Croatia

France are the established powerhouse with a young team full of speed and skill. Croatia have the veterans that have shown they can never be counted out.

The two sides will meet on Sunday in the World Cup final, with France going for their second title in their third final in 20 years. Croatia, a country that only gained independence in 1991, will be playing in their first.

Most consider France to be the favorites for the match at the Luzhniki Stadium, just like two years ago when the country's national team faced Portugal in the European Championship final at home.

But perhaps feeling complacent after beating Germany in the semi-finals, France flopped.

Lloris was the goalkeeper in that 1-0 loss in Paris, facing a Portugal team that had reached the final after some extra-time victories.

Croatia have done the same this year, needing penalties to beat Denmark and hosts Russia before defeating England in extra-time in the semi-finals.

France coach Didier Deschamps has made some changes to his team, however. Fourteen, to be exact, from the 23 players who made up the squad two years ago.

Another factor in France's favour is rest. The French had only two days of rest between the Euro 2016 semi-finals and the final. This time, they have four full days to recover, one more than Croatia.

Croatia have also played a lot more football in their six matches in Russia. With their last three matches going to extra-time, the team has played a full 90 minutes more than France. There was also the added stress of two penalty shootouts.

That's all behind them.

Here's a look at what you can expect on Sunday at the World Cup in Russia:

Final at Luzhniki Stadium: France vs Croatia, 8.30 pm IST

Putin reappears

The...

Continue reading on: