France’s 4-2 victory over Croatia in the 2018 World Cup final was a fitting conclusion to a tournament characterized by pragmatism, tactical discipline, and moments of brilliance. The final itself, though high-scoring, was not a showcase of expansive, free-flowing football but rather a battle of structure and execution. Goals stemmed largely from set-pieces rather than open play, reflecting a broader trend throughout the tournament.
While
Croatia enjoyed first-half dominance due to their intelligent pressing and midfield
control, France’s efficiency in transitions and set-piece prowess ultimately
secured their victory. Luka Modric, the tournament’s Golden Ball winner,
orchestrated Croatia’s attacks with supreme positional awareness, frequently
finding pockets of space beyond Paul Pogba’s reach. Yet, for all their ball
dominance, Croatia struggled to carve out clear-cut opportunities, a testament
to France’s defensive organization.
The Tactical Chess Match: Croatia’s Pressing
vs. France’s Efficiency
One of the
defining features of Croatia’s approach was their pressing intensity—an anomaly
in a World Cup largely devoid of aggressive high pressing. Unlike club teams
with ample training time, international sides often rely on compact defensive
structures rather than coordinated pressing. However, Croatia disrupted this
norm. Modric and Ivan Rakitic pushed high to support Mario Mandzukic, while
wide players Ante Rebic and Ivan Perisic pressed tirelessly. This strategy
unsettled France early on, forcing errors from Benjamin Pavard, Raphael Varane,
and N’Golo Kante, who uncharacteristically struggled under pressure.
In
contrast, France’s attacking approach was built around moments rather than
sustained control. Kylian Mbappe’s blistering pace was their primary weapon, particularly
in transitions. Though France lacked fluid open-play sequences, their ability
to capitalize on set-pieces and counterattacks proved decisive. Pogba’s precise
passing released Mbappe multiple times, culminating in France’s third goal,
where Pogba’s drive and vision unlocked Croatia’s defence.
The Importance of Balance and Squad Harmony
Beyond
tactics, France’s success under Didier Deschamps was rooted in squad unity and
disciplined pragmatism. Deschamps, who became only the third person to win the
World Cup as both player and manager, prioritized harmony over individual
brilliance. This philosophy had been in place since his appointment in 2012, a
direct response to the chaos of France’s 2010 World Cup campaign in South
Africa—a tournament marked by internal conflicts, player mutinies, and
off-field scandals.
France’s
disastrous 2010 campaign, led by Raymond Domenech, exposed deep fractures
within the squad. The French Football Federation’s subsequent decision to
overhaul team culture began with Laurent Blanc, who controversially omitted the
entire 2010 squad for his first match in charge. While Blanc restored some
stability, his tenure was marred by racial controversy regarding youth academy
selections, reflecting broader societal tensions in France.
Deschamps
inherited this fractured landscape and took decisive steps to foster unity. His
most notable decision was the continued exile of Karim Benzema, despite his
undeniable talent. Similarly, his squad selections prioritized cohesion over
individual skill, leading to the omissions of high-profile players like Alexandre
Lacazette, Anthony Martial, and Adrien Rabiot. The latter’s reaction—refusing
to be on the standby list—only vindicated Deschamps’ decision.
The Evolution of Key Players: Pogba and
Griezmann’s Tactical Sacrifice
Deschamps’
ability to mould a collection of stars into a cohesive unit was exemplified by
the roles assigned to Paul Pogba and Antoine Griezmann. Pogba, often criticized
at Manchester United for inconsistency, embraced a more disciplined role,
sacrificing personal flair for team structure. His performances in the knockout
stages, particularly in the final, demonstrated his evolution into a complete
midfield general.
Griezmann,
too, adapted his role for the greater good. Rather than operating purely as a
goal scorer, he functioned as a deeper playmaker, facilitating transitions and
linking play. His selflessness allowed Mbappe to thrive in a more advanced
role, showcasing the young star’s electrifying speed and composure.
A Reflection of France’s Diversity and Identity
Much like
the 1998 World Cup-winning squad, France’s 2018 team was emblematic of the
nation’s multicultural identity. Seventeen of the 23 squad members were
eligible to represent other nations, reinforcing the country’s footballing
diversity. This echoed the ethos of “Black-Blanc-Beur” (Black-White-Arab) that
defined the 1998 team’s success.
In a
politically charged climate, where debates over national identity and
immigration were prominent, this team symbolized unity and inclusion. Blaise
Matuidi articulated this sentiment: “The diversity we have in this team is in
the image of our beautiful country. We proudly represent France.”
Deschamps’ Legacy: Pragmatism Over Panache
Criticism
of France’s playing style—deemed too pragmatic given their attacking talent—is
not unique. Similar complaints were leveled at Italy in 2006, Spain in 2010,
and Germany in 2014. Deschamps prioritized structure and balance, a formula
that ultimately delivered the sport’s most prestigious prize. His philosophy
aligns with France’s national motto: “Liberté, égalité, fraternité.”
Ultimately,
the 2018 World Cup victory was a triumph of tactical discipline, squad unity,
and moments of individual brilliance. France’s blend of pragmatism and
dynamism, guided by Deschamps’ leadership, ensured they returned to the
pinnacle of world football. As Benjamin Mendy put it: “We are a true family.
There was an incredible feeling from the off. Thanks to everyone. Allez les
Bleus!”
Thank You
Faisal Caesar
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