FIFA World Cup 2018 final: France beats Croatia in six-goal thriller

France rode their luck before roaring past Croatia to win the World Cup for a second time as a thrilling tournament came to a fitting conclusion here yesterday.

Croatia's Mario Mandzukic (encircled) gives France the lead via an own goal as he heads a ball floated in by Antoine Griezmann (unseen) from a free kick

All eyes were fixed on the Luzhniki Stadium for a showpiece finale that few could have predicted when this action-packed summer got under way in Russia. The clash brought goals, blunders and no little controversy as France eventually ran out 4-2 victors in Moscow.

France's Griezmann scores from the penalty spot past Croatia's goalkeeper Danijel Subasic, after VAR adjudged a Perisic hand ball

The final was an unforgettable end to a tournament that will live long in the memory. Played at a ferocious intensity from the outset, Croatia continued in the same manner that had seen off England in the semi-finals only for Mario Mandzukic to become the first player to score an own goal in a World Cup final after turning in Antoine Griezmann's contentiously-awarded free-kick.

Paul Pogba scores France's third goal with his left foot

Ivan Perisic produced a thumping response as Zlatko Dalic's men deservedly drew level, only for France to go back ahead as the video assistant referee's first intervention in a major final allowed Griezmann to score from the spot.

France's fourth goal comes via Kylian Mbappe. Pics/AFP, Getty Images

There was little let-up after the break. Following a pitch invasion that Russian punk rock group Pussy Riot have claimed responsibility for, Paul Pogba struck home before Kylian Mbappe followed in Pele's footsteps by scoring in a World Cup final as a teenager. Hugo Lloris' gaffe allowed Mandzukic to reduce the deficit, but the France captain would not be denied lifting the trophy as coach Didier Deschamps helped the country to the title 20 years after doing so as a player.

Pitch invaders mar World Cup final
Moscow: Four people briefly interrupted the World Cup final yesterday when they ran onto the pitch at the Luzhniki Stadium here. They included at least one woman, while the men appeared to be wearing uniforms of security personnel. Referee Nestor Pitana briefly halted the match while stadium security staff chased down and then carried off the individuals.
Simon Peach

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