Heartbroken but proud Croatian fans in Zagreb cheered and wept as their “heroes” went down 4-2 to France in the World Cup final in Moscow on Sunday. On the final whistle applause from tens of thousands of Croatian fans rang out through the capital’s main Jelacic square as many lit flares and set off firecrackers.
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2018 FIFA World Cup
In pictures: France beat Croatia 4-2 in an incredible FIFA World Cup final in Moscow
France celebrated their second World Cup win 20 years after their maiden triumph on Sunday, overcoming a passionate Croatia side 4-2 in one of the most gripping finals in recent history. The breathless victory under stormy skies at Moscow’s Luzhniki Stadium means Didier Deschamps’ side — balancing youthful zest and tournament nous — have buried the pain of their defeat in the Euro 2016 final on home soil.
2018 FIFA World Cup
2018 FIFA World Cup: Croatia defeat England to reach the World Cup final for the first time – photos
Mario Mandzukic scored the winning goal deep in extra time as Croatia beat England 2-1 in an utterly gripping World Cup semi-final in Moscow on Wednesday to set up a final date with France. England had been the ones hoping to make history, in what was their first appearance in the semi-finals in 28 years.
2018 FIFA World Cup
FIFA World Cup 2018: Russia beat Spain on penalties at World Cup – photos
Host nation Russia stunned 2010 winners Spain in a penalty shootout to reach the World Cup quarter-finals on Sunday, holding their nerve in scenes of high drama in Moscow. Goalkeeper Igor Akinfeev was the hero, saving spot-kicks from Koke and Iago Aspas as Russia won 4-3, sparking emotional scenes as the rain poured down at the Luzhniki stadium.
2018 World Cup
Video: FIFA delegation inspects Russia’s preparations for World Cup 2018
When the newly-renovated Luzhniki Stadium welcomes fans to the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia opening game on June 14, it will open its doors to a new era for Russian sports.