And we’re just down to two teams. It’s been over a month since the 2018 FIFA World Cup kicked off in Russia, the title match is going to be played between France and Croatia in a showdown between a favorite and a sleeper. You’re going to want to bet on this one folks, because after all it will be four years until you can wager on the next. At press France is the strong favorite, but people believe in Croatia, with the money slowly shifting the moneyline accordingly. Get in while the getting is good.
France were a pre-tournament favorite, and they remain the chalk in the finals against Croatia. After all, they have been barely touched in the tournament. They had down moments in a close 2-1 win over Australia in the opener and a 4-3 squeaker over Argentina in the round of 16, but in their other games, they looked flawless, especially in their last two games in which they took apart serious contenders Uruguay and Belgium. France are equally talented on both ends of the field. Kylian Mbappé and Antione Griezmann are having their ways in the tournament with three goals apiece. The back line has been sturdy and looked especially sturdier in the last two matches. It’s not by accident that France managed to hold Uruguay’s Luis Suarez without an attempt and keep Belgium’s high-octane offense scoreless. Samuel Umtiti and Raphael Varane are going to be massive headaches for Croatia’s attackers, thanks to their size, speed, and athleticism.
Betting on Croatia (+293 to win)
Considered as among the dark horses to win it all in Russia, Croatia are a win away from throwing a massive parade in Zagreb after Vatreni snuffed out the hopes of England in the semifinals with a 2-1 win. The Croatians were superb in the group stage, outscoring Iceland. Argentina, and Nigeria, 7-1. The knockout phase has been very different, however, as they had to win in the round of 16 against Denmark and in the quarterfinals against Russia via penalty shootouts. Between Croatia and France, it’s the Chequered Ones, who are likely the more fatigued squad. That doesn’t take away the immense talent of Croatia, though, particularly that of their midfield, where the pair of Luka Modric and Ivan Rakitic operates. The two have the ability to elevate the game of Croatia’s attackers with their fantastic ability to control the possession and feel the ball to their teammates up front. Juventus forward Mario Mandzukic, Inter Milan striker Ivan Perisic, and Modric all have two goals each in the tournament.
Writer’s Prediction
France win their first World Cup title since 1998 by defeating Croatia 2-1.
