Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup French players celebrate with the World Cup trophy after defeating Croatia in the final on Sunday, July 15. Hide Caption 1 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup French midfielder Paul Pogba celebrates with the trophy. Hide Caption 2 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup France mobs Kylian Mbappe after his goal gave the team a 4-1 lead. Hide Caption 3 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Croatia's Ivan Strinic reacts during the match. Hide Caption 4 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup France manager Didier Deschamps is lifted by his players after the victory. Deschamps was also a player on the 1998 French team that won the World Cup. Hide Caption 5 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup French goalkeeper Hugo Lloris makes a jumping save against Croatia. Hide Caption 6 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup French players celebrate after the final whistle. Hide Caption 7 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup French President Emmanuel Macron shows his excitement while watching the match. Hide Caption 8 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Paul Pogba, bottom, runs to the corner after scoring France's third goal. Hide Caption 9 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup France's Lucas Hernandez tackles Ante Rebic. Hide Caption 10 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup The referee used video review on this play late in the first half and called for a penalty after Ivan Perisic handled the ball in the Croatian box. Antoine Griezmann stepped up to convert the penalty and give France a 2-1 lead. Hide Caption 11 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Perisic, bottom left, scored a spectacular first-half goal to tie the match at 1-1. Hide Caption 12 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Will Smith and Nicky Jam perform during the closing ceremony held before the final. Hide Caption 13 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Belgian players celebrate Eden Hazard's goal in the third-place match against England on Saturday, July 14. The Belgians won 2-0. Hide Caption 14 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Thomas Meunier opened the scoring for Belgium in the fourth minute. Hide Caption 15 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup English goalkeeper Jordan Pickford reacts after the first goal against Belgium. Hide Caption 16 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Mario Mandzukic scores against England late in extra time to give Croatia a 2-1 victory in the semifinals on Wednesday, July 11. Hide Caption 17 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Mandzukic celebrates after his goal. Hide Caption 18 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Croatia's Ivan Strinic, right, challenges England's Jesse Lingard. Hide Caption 19 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Croatian defender Sime Vrsaljko goes over Ashley Young for a header. Hide Caption 20 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup A photographer is knocked over by members of the Croatian team as they celebrate the late Mandzukic goal. Hide Caption 21 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Players collide during the Croatia-England semifinal. Croatia played 120 minutes for the third straight match. Hide Caption 22 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Lingard shields the ball in the corner. Hide Caption 23 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup France's Antoine Griezmann celebrates at the end of the semifinal match against Belgium on Tuesday, July 10. France won 1-0 to advance to the final. Hide Caption 24 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup France's Olivier Giroud kisses teammate Samuel Umtiti after Umtiti scored on a header against Belgium. Hide Caption 25 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Giroud is challenged by Belgium defender Vincent Kompany. Hide Caption 26 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup France's teenage sensation, Kylian Mbappe, jumps over Belgian goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois. Hide Caption 27 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Thierry Henry, assistant coach for Belgium and former French captain, consoles Belgian players after the semifinal loss. Hide Caption 28 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Luka Modric jumps for the ball during Croatia's quarterfinal victory over Russia on July 7. Hide Caption 29 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Croatian players celebrate after defeating Russia in a penalty shootout. The match was tied 2-2 after extra time. Hide Caption 30 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Russian forward Fedor Smolov reacts after the Croatia match. Hide Caption 31 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Croatia's Mario Mandzukic, left, and Russia's Mario Fernandes go for the ball. Hide Caption 32 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Croatia's Andrej Kramaric celebrates after scoring the opening goal against Russia. Hide Caption 33 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup English defenders Harry Maguire, left, and John Stones celebrate their quarterfinal victory over Sweden on July 7. Maguire scored the opening goal in the 2-0 win. Hide Caption 34 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup English manager Gareth Southgate celebrates his team's win. Hide Caption 35 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Dele Alli scores on a header for England's second goal. Hide Caption 36 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Swedish players are dejected at the end of the match. Hide Caption 37 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Belgian players celebrate the second goal in their 2-1 win over Brazil on July 6. They advanced to play France in the semifinals. Hide Caption 38 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Brazilian star Neymar reacts after the final whistle. Hide Caption 39 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Belgium celebrates their first goal, which came off a deflected header in the 13th minute. Hide Caption 40 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Belgian goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois leaps for a loose ball in the box. Hide Caption 41 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Kevin De Bruyne controls the ball against Brazil. Hide Caption 42 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup France's Olivier Giroud, left, and Uruguay's Martin Caceres battle for the ball during their quarterfinal match on July 6. France won 2-0. Hide Caption 43 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Uruguayan goalkeeper Fernando Muslera watches the ball leak into the net after he misplayed an Antoine Griezmann shot in the second half. Hide Caption 44 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup France's Benjamin Pavard, top, and Uruguay's Cristian Rodriguez compete for a header. Hide Caption 45 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup A France supporter cheers ahead of the match. Hide Caption 46 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup English players react after their shootout win over Colombia on July 3. It was England's first-ever shootout win at a World Cup. Hide Caption 47 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Colombian striker Radamel Falcao heads the ball toward goal on July 3. Hide Caption 48 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup England's Harry Kane tries to control the ball against Colombia. He scored a penalty during regulation time. It was his tournament-leading sixth goal. Hide Caption 49 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Falcao reacts after receiving a yellow card. Hide Caption 50 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Sweden's Emil Forsberg, left, celebrates after scoring against Switzerland on July 3. Sweden won 1-0 to advance to the quarterfinals. Hide Caption 51 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup A Sweden fan shows his support during the Switzerland match. Hide Caption 52 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Switzerland's Xherdan Shaqiri is challenged by Ludwig Augustinsson. Hide Caption 53 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Belgium players celebrate after Nacer Chadli, third from right, scored with just seconds remaining to win the round-of-16 match against Japan on July 2. Hide Caption 54 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Chadli slides the ball past Japan goalkeeper Eiji Kawashima to finish off Belgium's 3-2 comeback victory. It is the first time since 1970 that a team has come back from two goals down to win in the World Cup knockout stage. Hide Caption 55 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup A Japan supporter cries after the match. Hide Caption 56 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Takashi Inui, left, gave Japan a 2-0 lead early in the second half. Hide Caption 57 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Belgium defender Vincent Kompany nearly scores in the first half. Hide Caption 58 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Brazilian star Neymar is fouled by Mexican defender Edson Alvarez during their round-of-16 match on July 2. Brazil won 2-0. Hide Caption 59 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Neymar stretches for a cross to score Brazil's first goal in the 51st minute. Hide Caption 60 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Neymar is held on Paulinho's shoulders after the first goal. Hide Caption 61 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Mexico's Hirving Lozano watches the ball during the Brazil match. This is the seventh straight time that Mexico has been eliminated in the World Cup's round of 16. Hide Caption 62 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Croatia's Luka Modric celebrates with teammates after their victory over Denmark on July 1. Croatia won on penalties after the match ended 1-1. Hide Caption 63 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Croatia's Ivan Perisic stops the ball during the Denmark match. Hide Caption 64 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Goalkeeper Igor Akinfeev saves an Iago Aspas penalty to give Russia an upset victory over Spain in the round of 16. The match went to penalties after ending 1-1. Hide Caption 65 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Russian players mob Akinfeev after the final save. Hide Caption 66 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Russia's Artem Dzyuba celebrates after scoring against Spain in the first half. Hide Caption 67 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Spain's Isco and Russia's Mario Fernandes vie for the ball. Hide Caption 68 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Dzyuba is defended by Sergio Busquets. Hide Caption 69 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Edinson Cavani celebrates his second goal in a 2-0 victory over Portugal on June 30. Hide Caption 70 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo receives a yellow card from referee Cesar Ramos near the end of the match. Hide Caption 71 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Argentina's Lionel Messi reacts after his team was knocked out of the World Cup by France on June 30. Messi had two assists in the 4-3 loss. Hide Caption 72 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Kylian Mbappe was the star in France's victory over Argentina. The teenage sensation scored twice and drew a penalty that gave France its first goal. Hide Caption 73 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup An Argentina fan reacts after the match. Hide Caption 74 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Gabriel Mercado deflected a Messi shot past Hugo Lloris to give Argentina a brief 2-1 lead. Hide Caption 75 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup French players celebrate after Benjamin Pavard tied the match at 2-2. Hide Caption 76 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup France fans celebrate during the match against Argentina. Hide Caption 77 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Colombian defender Yerry Mina controls the ball during a match against Senegal on June 28. Mina headed in a second-half goal to lift his team to a 1-0 victory -- and first place in Group H. Hide Caption 78 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Colombia's Juan Quintero jumps over Senegal's Idrissa Gana Gueye. Senegal finished with four points in Group H, the same as Japan, but Japan advanced on the "fair play points" tiebreaker. Japan had two fewer yellow cards in the tournament than Senegal. Hide Caption 79 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Senegal fans salute before the match against Colombia. Hide Caption 80 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Poland's Jan Bednarek, left, competes for the ball with Japan's Gotoku Sakai on June 28. Poland won 1-0, but Japan advanced to the next round. Hide Caption 81 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Poland forward Robert Lewandowski dribbles through two Japan players. Hide Caption 82 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Japan supporters clear litter from the stands after the match. Hide Caption 83 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Belgium's Adnan Januzaj curls in a stunning goal against England on June 28. It was the only goal of the match. Hide Caption 84 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup The Belgium-England match was notable for how many top players didn't see the field. With both teams already assured a spot in the knockout stage, many of their usual starters took the night off. Among those on the bench for Belgium were captain Eden Hazard, Romelu Lukaku and Kevin De Bruyne. Hide Caption 85 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Tunisia's Wahbi Khazri, center, celebrates with his teammates after scoring the winning goal against Panama on June 28. Tunisia won 2-1. Hide Caption 86 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Panama players celebrate after an own goal gave them an early lead against Tunisia. Hide Caption 87 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Germany's Marco Reus reacts after his team lost to South Korea and was knocked out of the World Cup on June 27. The defending champions lost 2-0 and finished at the bottom of Group F. Hide Caption 88 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup South Korea's Lee Jae-sung, left, chases down a ball with Germany's Jonas Hector. Hide Caption 89 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Ludwig Augustinsson celebrates after scoring Sweden's first goal in its 3-0 victory over Mexico on June 27. The result meant that Sweden would top Group F and Mexico would finish in second. Hide Caption 90 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Mexican defender Hector Moreno heads the ball in front of Swedish forward Marcus Berg. Hide Caption 91 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Brazilian defender Thiago Silva celebrates after his powerful header gave Brazil a 2-0 lead over Serbia on June 27. Brazil won Group E with two victories and a draw. Hide Caption 92 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Brazil's Willian and Serbia's Filip Kostic fight for the ball. Hide Caption 93 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Brazilian star Neymar controls the ball during the Serbia match. Hide Caption 94 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Switzerland's Blerim Dzemaili celebrates after scoring the first goal in his team's 2-2 draw with Costa Rica on June 27. Switzerland finished second in its group to advance to the knockout stage. Hide Caption 95 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Kendall Waston had a goal for Costa Rica in the match against Switzerland. Hide Caption 96 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Costa Rican defender Cristian Gamboa, right, closes in on Switzerland's Ricardo Rodriguez. Hide Caption 97 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Argentina star Lionel Messi rides on the back of Marcos Rojo after Rojo's late winner against Nigeria on June 26. With the 2-1 victory, Argentina clinched a spot in the next round of the tournament. Hide Caption 98 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Rojo controls the ball earlier in the match against Nigeria. Hide Caption 99 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Argentina legend Diego Maradona was in the crowd once again, drawing attention from fans just as he did when he was a player. Hide Caption 100 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Croatia's Josip Pivaric prepares to chest the ball during the team's 1-0 win against Iceland on June 26. Croatia improved its record to 3-0 in the tournament. Hide Caption 101 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Croatia supporters kiss ahead of the match against Iceland. Hide Caption 102 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Danish players acknowledge fans after their scoreless draw with France on June 26. Both teams advanced to the knockout stage. Hide Caption 103 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Denmark's Martin Braithwaite, left, is tracked by France's N'Golo Kante, center, and Presnel Kimpembe. Hide Caption 104 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Australian player Mark Milligan is joined by his children after a 2-0 loss to Peru on June 26. Hide Caption 105 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Milligan stretches to clear a cross. Hide Caption 106 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Aaron Mooy tugs on the jersey of Peru's Paolo Guerrero. Hide Caption 107 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Portugal's Ricardo Quaresma, left, is embraced by Cristiano Ronaldo after scoring against Iran on June 25. Iran scored late to tie the match, but the 1-1 result was enough to see Portugal into the next round. Hide Caption 108 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup An Iran fan enjoys the pre-match atmosphere. Hide Caption 109 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Iranian forward Sardar Azmoun shields the ball from Portuguese defender Jose Fonte. Hide Caption 110 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Moroccan goalkeeper Munir catches the ball against Spain. That match ended 2-2, with Spain winning the group. Hide Caption 111 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Egyptian star Mohamed Salah reacts after Saudi Arabia's winning goal in second-half stoppage time on June 25. Egypt lost all three of its matches at this World Cup. Hide Caption 112 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Salem Al-Dawsari celebrates with a flip after scoring the match-winning goal against Egypt. Hide Caption 113 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Russia's Artem Dzyuba, in white, competes with Uruguay's Sebastian Coates during Uruguay's 3-0 victory on June 25. Uruguay won all three of its matches in the group stage. This was Russia's first loss. Hide Caption 114 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup A Uruguay fan, right, poses with a Russia fan before the match. Hide Caption 115 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Uruguayan forward Luis Suarez, left, reacts after the second goal deflected past Russian goalkeeper Igor Akinfeev. Hide Caption 116 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Colombian forward Falcao celebrates after scoring against Poland on June 24. Colombia won 3-0. Hide Caption 117 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Colombian defender Yerry Mina opened the scoring with a header in the first half. Hide Caption 118 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup A Colombia fan before the Poland match. Hide Caption 119 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Senegalese players huddle up before the second half of their match against Japan on June 24. The two teams tied 2-2. Hide Caption 120 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup A shot of the crowd at the Ekaterinburg Arena during the Japan-Senegal match. Hide Caption 121 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup English striker Harry Kane celebrates after scoring a penalty in the 6-1 rout of Panama on June 24. Kane finished with a hat trick. Hide Caption 122 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Panama players gather after their defeat. Hide Caption 123 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup German players celebrate after Toni Kroos scored on a late free kick to stun Sweden 2-1 on June 23. Hide Caption 124 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup South Korea's Ki Sung-yueng, right, argues with Mexico's Edson Alvarez as Mexican goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa lies on the ground on June 23. Mexico won 2-1. Hide Caption 125 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup South Korea's Lee Yong, left, duels for the ball with Mexico's Hirving Lozano. Hide Caption 126 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup A Mexico fan waits for the start of the match against South Korea. Hide Caption 127 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Belgium's Romelu Lukaku scores against Tunisia on June 23. He had a pair of goals in the match, which Belgium won 5-2. Hide Caption 128 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Captain Eden Hazard also scored two for Belgium. Hide Caption 129 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Players watch the ball during the Belgium-Tunisia match. Hide Caption 130 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Belgium's Jan Vertonghen, left, challenges Tunisia's Wahbi Khazri. Hide Caption 131 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Swiss midfielder Xherdan Shaqiri celebrates after scoring the winning goal against Serbia on June 22. Switzerland won 2-1. Hide Caption 132 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Swiss players defend Serbia's Sergej Milinkovic-Savic. Hide Caption 133 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Swiss goalkeeper Yann Sommer catches the ball over Milinkovic-Savic. Hide Caption 134 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Nigerian midfielder Oghenekaro Etebo kicks the ball during a 2-0 victory over Iceland on June 22. Hide Caption 135 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Ahmed Musa celebrates after scoring his second goal of the match against Iceland. Hide Caption 136 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Iceland fans perform their famous viking clap. Hide Caption 137 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Neymar celebrates his last-second goal that finished off Brazil's 2-0 victory over Costa Rica on June 22. Hide Caption 138 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Neymar taps in his goal late in the match. Hide Caption 139 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Croatian players celebrate the second goal in their 3-0 victory over Argentina on June 21. The victory clinched them a spot in the knockout stage. Hide Caption 140 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Croatia's Luka Modric is tackled by Argentina's Nicolas Tagliafico. Hide Caption 141 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Willy Caballero is dejected after his flubbed clearance gifted Croatia its first goal. Hide Caption 142 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup France's Kylian Mbappe, right, celebrates with teammate Antoine Griezmann after scoring against Peru on June 21. It was the only goal of the match. Hide Caption 143 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Peru's Andre Carrillo is challenged by French players Paul Pogba, left, and N'Golo Kante. Hide Caption 144 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup A Peruvian supporter waits for the start of the match. Hide Caption 145 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Australia's Robbie Kruse, foreground, and Denmark's Henrik Dalsgaard go for a header during the teams' 1-1 draw on June 21. Hide Caption 146 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Australia's Joshua Risdon jumps over Thomas Delaney. Hide Caption 147 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Spain's Diego Costa, right, celebrates with teammate Isco after scoring against Iran on June 20. Spain won 1-0. Hide Caption 148 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup A fan has his face painted with the colors of the Spanish flag on June 20. Hide Caption 149 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Referee Andres Cunha speaks with Iranian midfielder Ehsan Hajsafi during the match. Hide Caption 150 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Cristiano Ronaldo scored the only goal in Portugal's 1-0 win over Morocco on June 20. Hide Caption 151 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Uruguay fans cheer outside the stadium before the match with Saudi Arabia on June 20. Hide Caption 152 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Saudi Arabia's Fahad Al-Muwallad, left, challenges Uruguay's Diego Godin. Hide Caption 153 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Uruguay's Luis Suarez celebrates after scoring against Saudi Arabia. It was the only goal of the match, and the final result meant Uruguay and Russia would both advance to the tournament's knockout stage. Hide Caption 154 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Mohamed Salah kisses the ball before scoring a penalty for Egypt on June 19. Russia won, however, by a final score of 3-1. Hide Caption 155 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Egypt's Tarek Hamed, left, and Russia's Aleksandr Golovin compete for the ball. Hide Caption 156 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Russia's first goal came when the ball deflected off Egypt's Ahmed Fathi. Hide Caption 157 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Members of the Senegal team celebrate after defeating Poland 2-1 in their match on June 19. Hide Caption 158 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Japanese defender Gen Shoji climbs over Colombia's Radamel Falcao to win a header in their World Cup opener on June 19. Japan won the match 2-1. Hide Caption 159 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup The referee shows a red card to Colombia's Carlos Sanchez in the third minute. Sanchez was deemed to have deliberately handled the ball in the box. Hide Caption 160 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup English players celebrate Harry Kane's first goal in the 2-1 win over Tunisia on June 18. Kane later added the winner in second-half stoppage time. Hide Caption 161 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup A Tunisia fan shows his dejection after the final whistle. Hide Caption 162 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Belgium's Dries Mertens, right, competes for the ball with Panama's Jose Luis Rodriguez during their World Cup opener on June 18. Mertens scored a goal in Belgium's 3-0 victory. Hide Caption 163 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Panamanian forward Gabriel Torres controls the ball during the match against Belgium. Hide Caption 164 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Sweden's Pontus Jansson, top left, and South Korea's Ki Sung-yueng try to head the ball during Sweden's 1-0 victory on June 18. Hide Caption 165 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Switzerland's Steven Zuber celebrates after scoring a goal against Brazil on June 17. The two teams tied 1-1. Hide Caption 166 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Brazil's Philippe Coutinho and Switzerland's Breel Embolo compete for the ball. Hide Caption 167 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Brazilian star Neymar recently came back from a foot injury. Hide Caption 168 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Mexico's Hirving Lozano, left, celebrates with Jesus Gallardo after scoring the only goal in the upset victory over Germany on June 17. Hide Caption 169 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Fans wave German flags before facing off with Mexico. Hide Caption 170 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Mexican goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa makes a late save against Mario Gomez. Hide Caption 171 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Marcos Ureña runs onto the pitch during Costa Rica's opening match against Serbia on June 17. Serbia won 1-0. Hide Caption 172 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Croatian players celebrate after Luka Modric scored the second goal of their 2-0 win against Nigeria on June 16. Hide Caption 173 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Nigerian captain John Obi Mikel runs with the ball during the Croatia match. Hide Caption 174 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Denmark's Yussuf Poulsen reacts after he scored a goal against Peru on June 16. It turned out to be the only goal in the match. Hide Caption 175 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Peru's Luis Advincula, left, and Denmark's Martin Braithwaite fight for the ball. Hide Caption 176 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Argentina star Lionel Messi appears downcast at the end of a 1-1 draw with Iceland on June 16. Messi missed a penalty in the match. Hide Caption 177 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Messi and Iceland's Hordur Magnusson struggle for the ball. Hide Caption 178 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Fans of France share a kiss before the team's opening match with Australia on June 16. Hide Caption 179 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup French midfielder Paul Pogba keeps his eye on the ball against Australia. His shot deflected off an Australian for the match-winning goal. Hide Caption 180 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Portugal star Cristiano Ronaldo celebrates his first-half penalty against Spain on June 15. He added two more goals in the 3-3 draw. Hide Caption 181 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Spanish defender Nacho, left, competes for a header with Portugal's Bruno Fernandes. Nacho conceded the early penalty to Ronaldo but responded with a second-half goal. Hide Caption 182 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Fernando Hierro was making his debut as Spain's manager. The former captain took over when Spain fired Julen Lopetegui just before the tournament. Hide Caption 183 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Portuguese defender Raphael Guerreiro controls the ball in the match against Spain. Hide Caption 184 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Morocco's Aziz Bouhaddouz lies on the ground after heading the ball into his own net late in stoppage time on June 15. The whistle was blown just a few moments later, and Iran won 1-0. Hide Caption 185 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Iran's Alireza Jahanbakhsh grimaces in pain in front of Morocco's Romain Saiss. Hide Caption 186 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Uruguay's Luis Suarez, left, and Egypt's Sam Morsy battle for the ball on June 15. Uruguay won 1-0. Hide Caption 187 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Fans watch the Egypt-Uruguay match from temporary seats set up at the Ekaterinburg Arena. The seats had to be installed to meet FIFA's minimum-seating requirement. Hide Caption 188 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Egyptian midfielder Abdallah Said heads the ball during the match against Uruguay. Hide Caption 189 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Fedor Smolov fights off two Saudi defenders during the tournament opener, which Russia won 3-0 on June 14. Russia and Saudi Arabia came into the match as the lowest-ranked teams in the tournament. Hide Caption 190 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Fans watching from Yekaterinburg, Russia, celebrate Russia's first goal. Hide Caption 191 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup The ball flies past Saudi Arabian goalkeeper Abdullah Al-Mayouf for Russia's fourth goal. Hide Caption 192 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup A fan wears body paint in Russia's colors before the opening match. Hide Caption 193 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Russian President Vladimir Putin speaks to the crowd before kickoff at the Luzhniki Stadium. Hide Caption 194 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup Performers take part in the tournament's opening ceremony. Hide Caption 195 of 197

Photos: The best photos of the 2018 World Cup British pop star Robbie Williams headlined the opening ceremony. Hide Caption 196 of 197</s>THE wounds of England's 1990 World Cup semi-final exit are 28 years old, but still devastatingly raw.

Likewise, the mere mention of their heartbreaking 2-0 defeat to France in 1998 is enough to bring a tear to the eyes of Croatian fans.

Truly, Thursday's semi-final in Moscow is a chance for two success-starved nations to exorcise some World Cup demons.

England has been swept up in the emotion of their surprise charge to the final four, with the country's fans losing their collective minds after the quarter-final triumph over Sweden.

Their progression has been crafted under the watchful eye of coach Gareth Southgate, with the even-handed leadership of Harry Kane inspiring an underrated group to unexpected glories.

Croatia, meanwhile, have the creative genius of Luka Modric to fuel their campaign - but needed extra-time and penalties to dispose of host nation Russia in their quarter-final clash.

Kick-off is at 4am (AEST) on Thursday in at Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow.

This longstanding Premier League duel between Liverpool's Lovren and Tottenham's Kane will resume. Confident Kane has caused havoc with his movement and finishing, but Croatia takes confidence from the fact that Lionel Messi and Christian Eriksen have been muzzled.

Another evenly matched game and while England has a physical edge, Croatia's collective big-game experience at club level could prove the difference.</s>France earned its spot in the 2018 World Cup final with a 1-0 win over Belgium on Tuesday. In Wednesday's seimfinal game, Croatia and England will square off at the same stadium that will host the final — Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow.

While England is busy singing "Football's coming home" as it carries on its quest for its first World Cup win in 52 years, a potential distraction entered Croatia's camp on Monday.

While Harry Kane is the favorite for the World Cup's Golden Boot award with a tournament-best six goals, it's England's goalkeeper who also has been instrumental in getting the Three Lions to the brink of history. Goalkeeper Jordan Pickford played just three games for England before the World Cup, but has played like a veteran to help his team reach the semifinals of a World Cup for the first time since 1990.

Croatia forward Mario Mandzukic is the biggest threat to Pickford's goal. Feeding the ball to Mandzukic is Luka Modric, one of the best players on the planet.

One thing working against Croatia is how many minutes it has played to advance to the semifinal. Croatia went through extra time and penalty kicks against both Switzerland in the Round of 16 and Russia in the quarterfinals. England, meanwhile, had a relatively comfortable 2-0 win over Sweden in the quarterfinals.

Rogers: Why the World Cup is a great advertisement for immigration

2018 World Cup: Complete schedule of games, how to watch</s>(COMBO) This combination of pictures created on Ju

(COMBO) This combination of pictures created on Ju

THE wounds of England's 1990 World Cup semi-final exit are 28 years old, but still devastatingly raw.

Likewise, the mere mention of their heartbreaking 2-0 defeat to France in 1998 is enough to bring a tear to the eyes of Croatian fans.

Truly, Thursday's semi-final in Moscow is a chance for two success-starved nations to exorcise some World Cup demons.

England has been swept up in the emotion of their surprise charge to the final four, with the country's fans losing their collective minds after the quarter-final triumph over Sweden.

Their progression has been crafted under the watchful eye of coach Gareth Southgate, with the even-handed leadership of Harry Kane inspiring an underrated group to unexpected glories.

Croatia, meanwhile, have the creative genius of Luka Modric to fuel their campaign - but needed extra-time and penalties to dispose of host nation Russia in their quarter-final clash.

Kick-off is at 4am (AEST) on Thursday in at Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow.

This longstanding Premier League duel between Liverpool's Lovren and Tottenham's Kane will resume. Confident Kane has caused havoc with his movement and finishing, but Croatia takes confidence from the fact that Lionel Messi and Christian Eriksen have been muzzled.

Another evenly matched game and while England has a physical edge, Croatia's collective big-game experience at club level could prove the difference.</s>England manager Gareth Southgate found out a long time ago that superstition was not the way for him, and is trusting his side to reach the World Cup final without having to rely on luck or rituals.

The Three Lions have the chance to reach just the second major tournament finale in their history on Wednesday as they take on Croatia in a mouth-watering Luzhniki Stadium semi-final.

Following in the footsteps of the heroes of 1966 had looked a pipe dream this summer, but Southgate has created an impressive bond and shaped his promising team into World Cup challengers.

The former defender suffered disappointment when England last reached the last four of a major tournament, missing the crucial spot-kick as Terry Venables' men bowed out of Euro '96 in a penalty shootout.

That pain that still haunts the manager, but years of English disappointment is not being felt by players ahead of the biggest match in a generation.</s>Croatia advances to World Cup final for first time, beats England 2-1 in extra time

MOSCOW (AP) — Croatia advances to World Cup final for first time, beats England 2-1 in extra time.</s>England saw its best chance of ending several generations’ worth of World Cup pain slip away on Wednesday night, as Croatia fought back for a 2-1 win in extra time, securing a spot against France in Sunday’s final.

Englandhad not been to a semifinal since 1990, and not reached the title game since it won soccer’s greatest prize for the only time back in 1966. This, for much of a wild and rugged evening at Luzhniki Stadium, looked like the time. Until it wasn’t.

Croatia was one of the most impressive teams of the group stage before surviving two penalty shootouts to reach this point. Its technical ability and fierce resiliency allowed it to capitalize on England’s nervous lapses when victory was in sight.

Mario Mandzukic got the winner in injury time to put Croatia, with previously a tournament-best semifinal in 1998 to its name, one game away from winning it all.

England made a blistering start, surging into an early lead thanks to a stunning free-kick from Kieran Trippier. Trippier struck a sweet effort over the Croatia wall in the fifth minute, guiding it perfectly past goalkeeper Danijel Subasic and into the top scorer.

Dele Alli had won the free-kick on the edge of the penalty area, when his powerful forward run was abruptly stopped by a Luka Modric foul.

As the first half progressed, and with England dominant, the opportunity was there to put the game away. A second goal would likely have done it. Kane had the best shot at it, finding himself through on goal, firing at Subasic, then knocking a second effort against the post.

But the game opened up in the second half and while England was enjoying plenty of possession it was giving Croatia the kind of space it enjoys.

With 68 minutes gone, things were level. Ivan Perisic made a strong run in the box and raised his left cleat high to deflect a cross past Jordan Pickford and into the net. Suddenly, England was rattled and Croatia was resurgent. Perisic was mightily unlucky not to add to his tally when his angled shot beat Pickford but cannoned off the post.

Croatia had already gone into extra time in the round of 16 and the quarterfinals, prevailing on penalty kicks on both occasions. England had also won on penalties against Colombia in the second round.

Extra time arrived again and was predictably tense. Mandzukic had Croatia’s best chance at the end of the first additional period, but Pickford blocked his shot from close range. But Mandzukic would not be denied just after the break. John Stones was slow to pick up Mandzukic’s run onto a Perisic header, and Pickford was beaten by a left-foot shot that sealed England’s fate and sent Croatia into dreamland.</s>England’s heroes fall just short and are out of the World Cup at the semi-final stage. The Three Lions tried their absolute best but Croatia had just about enough to get over the line. Mario Mandzukic’s extra-time winner sees them go through to Sunday’s final against France. England will face Belgium for third place on Saturday. The Three Lions will get a huge welcome when they return home. They have done everyone proud and with Gareth Southgate, the future looks bright! 9:35: England, down to ten, just can’t find the energy to muster a chance. It’s so difficult for them as Croatia use all the tricks in the book to wind down time. 9:33: 4 minutes of added time. Can England find anything? 9:28: Mario Mandzukic takes an absolute age to leave the field as he is replaced by Vedran Corluka. It appears Kieran Trippier’s groin has gone and England are down to 10 men. Still five minutes plus surely a healthy chunk of added-time to play. 9:24: Ten minutes left and Gareth Southgate as gone for it. Jamie Vardy is on for Kyle Walker. Marcus Rashford tries to find Dele Alli in the box but Danijel Subasic collects. Is that the goal that breaks England hearts? He takes it down well and slots past Jordan Pickford. 9:17: Croatia get it going once again. 15 minutes left or it will be penalties. 9:32: 4 minutes of added time. Can England find anything?

Jordan Pickford has kept England in the World Cup. What a stunning stop. More heroics from England’s goalkeeper as he some how keeps out Mario Mandzukic from pointblank range. 9:11: Both sides looking tired and that’s certainly fair enough. Harry Kane looks to set England away but overhits a pass to Dele Alli. 9:07: Croatia somehow win a free-kick from Marcus Rashord and have a golden chance to whip it in. But England and Danny Rose defend manfully to clear. It’s been all England in this first 15 minutes of extra-time. 9:04: So close for England. Eric Dier has come on for Jordan Henderson and wins a corner straight away. It’s another perfect cross from Kieran Trippier who puts it on John Stones’ head. The Man City star meets it well but Croatia clear it off the line. So so close. 9:00: Ivan Strinic has gone down and will need replacing. It gives everyone another chance to take a second and regroup. Danny Rose wins a free-kick and England float it into the box but Harry Maguire is punished for a foul. Not totally sure how though… 8:55: England bring on Danny Rose for Ashley Young as the first-half of extra-time gets underway. FULL TIME: So we will need extra-time to decide who will face France in the World Cup final. England have had four good chances in Moscow but Croatia came back superbly well in that second half. Ivan Perisic’s equaliser was well-deserved but surely they will fatigue in this added 30 minutes. Kieran Trippier whips in another fine delivery but Harry Kane’s header bobbles wide. It hasn’t been his night, yet.

8:47: How Croatia are not dead on their feet is amazing. They continue to press and probe but England defend well. All the pressure is released as Dejan Lovren smashes into the crowd. England can breath again. 8:42: Mario Mandzukic and Ivan Perisic both go close for Croatia. England could do with full-time at this rate. A few England passes not finding their mark at the moment. They need to settle back down, regroup and get a grip of this semi-final again. Harry Kane comes just inches from finding Marcus Rashford in the box. 8:39: 10 minutes to go, will we have an England winner in normal time? England nearly mess things up at the back again and Pickford just about gets it clear. How are the nerves, folks? 8:35: England go close thanks to Jesse Lingard. Croatia still look vulnerable at the back but the Man United star just drags an effort past the post. Jordan Henderson then has a go from outside the box but it goes over. Much better from the Three Lions. 8:32: Gareth Southgate has made his first move and brings Marcus Rashford on for Raheem Sterling. Croatia have really found their form now and England are hanging on.

8:30: Croatia go close straight away and smash the England post. John Stones and Jordan Pickford get mixed up and the ball falls to Ivan Perisic again. He steps over into space, fires at goal and hits the upright. The rebound eventually falls into Pickford’s hands. England living life dangerously and have to find some sort of calm again. This is frantic. We are level in Moscow as Croatia finally make something happen. Perisic finds a yard of space in the box and flicks the ball past a helpless Jordan Pickford. 8:22: Raheem Sterling breaks into the Croatia box and is brought down. There are tentative calls for a penalty but nothing doing. It takes a deflection and catches Kyle Walker right in the manhood. The Man City star putting his body on the line to keep that ball out. What a block!

8:18: We’ve reached the hour mark and it remains 1-0 to England as Ivan Rakitic blazes a shot way, way over the bar. Croatia offering very little in attack but England need to find a way of killing this game off. Gareth Southgate has a full compliment of subs on the bench. 8:15: A poor corner finds its way back to Kieran Trippier who remains forward. He volleys a fine cross into the box first time and Harry Kane comes close with a diving header. Croatia do well to clear but that was a half-chance. 8:12: England pressing the ball really well and keeping Croatia in their own half. No chances since the break yet. Kyle Walker then picks up a silly yellow card for holding onto the ball and Croatia win an iffy corner. But England do a good job of defending and any danger passes. 8:07:No changes at the break as both sides ease themselves into the second period early on. Mario Mandzukic joins Ante Rebic in the referee’s notebook. Surely Croatia must be knackered after their back-to-back penalty shoot-outs? Can England take advantage? 8:00: We are back going again in Moscow. England just 45 minutes away from the World Cup final!

HALFTIME: A brilliant first 45 from England and they claimed a fully deserved advantage. Kieran Trippier’s wonderful free-kick put the Three Lions ahead but it's a slender lead. Harry Kane and Jesse Lingard should both have scored, this game really could be out of sight already. England got slightly lucky with a VAR check right at the end of the half after a bit of holding in the box. But it was all fine. So far, so good. Now. Can England get the job done? 7:46: But that free-kick is dealt with by England and that’ll be halftime. Wow. What a half. 7:45: Kyle Walker and Jordan Pickford get into a muddle and the England keeper has clear in a hurry. Croatia stream forward and Walker does well to make amends.

7:30: Sterling does well again to keep a hopeful ball in play before drawing a foul from Lovren who should surely have got a yellow card. The free-kick comes to nothing. England playing with poise and confidence at the back and look by far the more dangerous team in attack. An almost perfect first 30 minutes from Gareth Southgate’s men. 7:25: Raheem Sterling bursts through Croatia’s midfield yet again, the Man City has looked very, very bright so far. England bossing this semi-final and I never thought I’d be writing that this evening. 7:20: 20 minutes gone and England win a free-kick as Dejan Lovren upends Harry Kane on the halfway line. The Three Lions go forward and draw a terrible mistake from Croatia keeper Danijel Subasic. He gives it straight to Raheem Sterling who finds Kane but he is offside. Nervy, nervy moments for Croatia at the back. 7:17: The game has just settled down a touch after that stunning start from England. Croatia, trying to find some sort of rhythm, play it around nicely at the back and in midfield but can’t find their flow up top just yet. Ivan Perisic lets fly from range and it skips just wide. Probably should have been a corner but we’ll ignore that.

7:14: Harry Maguire does get his big ole head on it but is punished for a foul, probably the right call but another warning shot to Croatia. Ashley Young has started very well. But then again who in white hasn’t?! The Three Lions have another corner early. And Maguire again wins it. But it just bounces wide. 7:10: England can now look to hit Croatia on the break as Sterling is nearly put in behind twice. Southgate’s side looking the fresher of the two sides by far. And now it’s an England corner…. Alli is up-ended right on the edge of the box and Croatia set up an intimidating wall with nearly every player involved. But it doesn’t matter one bit to Trippier. The Tottenham star, one of the World Cup’s best players, curls his effort up and over and into the back of the net. What a start for the Three Lions! 7:03: All the noise is coming from the England fans as ‘England going all the way’ rings around this amazing stadium. England look bright in the first few minutes, each player getting a touch and looking assured. 7:00: We are underway at the Luzhniki Stadium. Come on England!! It’s coming home!

6:55: The players have made their way out and into the Moscow night. Anthems to follow, then GAME ON! 6:50: Just 10 minutes to go in Moscow! England have got a greatly increased presence at the Luzhniki Stadium than for their previous games, with estimates putting our contingent between 8,000 and 10,000. Yet they still appeared to be outnumbered, at least judging by the reaction which greeted the arrival of Kane and company for the warm-ups.

6:45: The man, the myth, the legend has spoken ahead of kick off. England boss Gareth Southgate: "It is the next game and we have made the same preparation as we have done for every match so far. "The team have played well and performed in the matches that matter and we have options to change the game. These guys deserve the chance to go and do it again. "Croatia have some outstanding individuals and they are strong in attacking crosses, they have a great spirit and togetherness. We have to we have to have self-belief too. "It is brilliant that we can feel the energy and support from back home. We have to disconnect from it a little because we have a game of football to play. "We are ready, we trust in the player, the way we work and that does not change.” 6:40: Little bit from Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho who believes tonight’s game could all hinge on one Kieran Trippier. “If I was the Croatian manager, I would be thinking that all England’s build-up goes to the same channel, Trippier,” he said. “Ashley Young is more positional. He is not a left-footed player, he is a player I adapted as a left-back. Southgate has used experience he had in the last season with Manchester United, but he’s not a very offensive player through the channel because he’s not on his natural side. “Trippier is the channel. [Ivan] Strinic is a strong left-back. [Ivan] Perisic, if he plays on the left, is better from a tactical point of view than [Ante] Rebic. So I would think about stopping the channel." The team news is an interesting one in Moscow. England stay attacking while Croatia look to sure things up. Who has got it right? England are unchanged for the third knockout match in a row, with coach Gareth Southgate sticking to his trusted 3-5-2 system. Captain Harry Kane, leading scorer at the World Cup with six goals, spearheads the attack alongside Raheem Sterling as they look to reach their first final in 52 years. Croatia coach Zlatko Dalic has brought in Marcelo Brozovic in place of Andrej Kramaric in an effort to control the pace of the game. Injury concerns over Sime Vrsaljko came to nothing as the Atletico Madrid defender has been named in the starting XI.

6:25: Paul Merson can only see one outcome tonight, an England victory! Let’s hope the Magic Man is spot on. He said: “I can't see anything but an England win. I'm very, very confident. “I find it impossible how Croatia can play back-to-back extra time and penalties and then come again. They were completely out on their feet late against Russia. “I haven't watched England and thought: 'Wow.' In any game. There are teams who have played better than England who are back home now. But it's nobody's fault. The medal you win doesn't say how you played, or the scorelines. It just says: 'Winners.’”

6:20: England have had a pretty poor record against Sweden in recent years but produced a composed, confident display to beat them in the quarter-finals. Against Croatia, England have done better as of late. The last two games between the two sides? A 4-1 and a 5-1 win to England! That’s got to be a good omen, right? 6:15: Let’s get tonight underway with some confident quotes from England great Steven Gerrard. The Rangers boss said: "I've been so pleased to watch the players perform. "I think they've done the country proud. It seems with every barrier that gets put in their way, they seem to be getting over it comfortably. "I do predict an England win. I think with the energy, the organisation, the confidence at the moment, England are a force.” 6:10: The teams are in for tonight’s match and Southgate has stuck with what has worked so well so far. Most of the country could recite England’s starting eleven these days! With no injuries to worry about, Southgate has selected the side which kicked off the last-16 game against Colombia and the quarter-final against Sweden. Croatia have made one change from their win over Russia with Marcelo Borzovic replacing Andrej Kramaric.

6:00: Hello, good evening and welcome! Starsport is here to take you through the ups and downs of tonight’s dramatic World Cup action. England - ohhh yes England - take on Croatia in their semi-final in Moscow’s Luzhniki Stadium this evening as they strive to book a place in Sunday’s final against France. Gareth Southgate and co have given us all a joyful summer so far but can they go a step further and reach just their second ever final at a major tournament? Gather your loved ones, grab a cold beverage, get ‘Three Lions’ on repeat on your stereo and let’s dream that it really could come home!</s>England head coach Gareth Southgate leaves the field at the end of the semifinal match between Croatia and England at the 2018 soccer World Cup in the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow, Russia, Wednesday, July 11, 2018. less

England head coach Gareth Southgate leaves the field at the end of the semifinal match between Croatia and England at the 2018 soccer World Cup in the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow, Russia, Wednesday, July 11, ... more

Croatia's Sime Vrsaljko celebrates after his team advanced to the final during the semifinal match between Croatia and England at the 2018 soccer World Cup in the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow, Russia, Wednesday, July 11, 2018. less

Croatia's Sime Vrsaljko celebrates after his team advanced to the final during the semifinal match between Croatia and England at the 2018 soccer World Cup in the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow, Russia, Wednesday, ... more

Croatian fans celebrate at the end of the semifinal match between Croatia and England, in Zagreb, Croatia, Wednesday, July 11, 2018.

England's Harry Kane reacts at the end of the semifinal match between Croatia and England at the 2018 soccer World Cup in the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow, Russia, Wednesday, July 11, 2018.

Croatia's Ivan Perisic scores his side's first goal past England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford during the semifinal match between Croatia and England at the 2018 soccer World Cup in the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow, Russia, Wednesday, July 11, 2018. less

Croatia's Ivan Perisic scores his side's first goal past England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford during the semifinal match between Croatia and England at the 2018 soccer World Cup in the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow, ... more

Croatia's Sime Vrsaljko celebrates after his team advanced to the final during the semifinal match between Croatia and England at the 2018 soccer World Cup in the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow, Russia, Wednesday, July 11, 2018. less

Croatia's Sime Vrsaljko celebrates after his team advanced to the final during the semifinal match between Croatia and England at the 2018 soccer World Cup in the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow, Russia, Wednesday, ... more

Croatia's supporters celebrate after a goal as they watch on a giant screen the Russia 2018 World Cup semi-final football match between Croatia and England, at the main square in Zagreb on July 11, 2018. / AFP PHOTO / Denis LovrovicDENIS LOVROVIC/AFP/Getty Images less

Croatia's supporters celebrate after a goal as they watch on a giant screen the Russia 2018 World Cup semi-final football match between Croatia and England, at the main square in Zagreb on July 11, 2018. / AFP ... more

England soccer fans watch a live broadcast on a big screen of the semifinal match between Croatia and England at the 2018 soccer World Cup, in Hyde Park, London, Wednesday, July 11, 2018. (AP Photo/Matt Dunham)

Football fans react to extra time as England play Croatia at the Auto Trader World Cup semi-final screening in Castlefield Bowl on July 11, 2018 in Manchester, United Kingdom. World Cup fever is building among England fans after reaching the Semi Finals of the Russia 2018 FIFA World Cup (Photo by Anthony Devlin/Getty Images) less

Football fans react to extra time as England play Croatia at the Auto Trader World Cup semi-final screening in Castlefield Bowl on July 11, 2018 in Manchester, United Kingdom. World Cup fever is building among ... more

England soccer fans watch a live broadcast on a big screen of the semifinal match between Croatia and England at the 2018 soccer World Cup, in Hyde Park, London, Wednesday, July 11, 2018. (AP Photo/Matt Dunham)

Football fans react to extra time as England play Croatia at the Auto Trader World Cup semi-final screening in Castlefield Bowl on July 11, 2018 in Manchester, United Kingdom. World Cup fever is building among England fans after reaching the Semi Finals of the Russia 2018 FIFA World Cup (Photo by Anthony Devlin/Getty Images) less

Football fans react to extra time as England play Croatia at the Auto Trader World Cup semi-final screening in Castlefield Bowl on July 11, 2018 in Manchester, United Kingdom. World Cup fever is building among ... more

England fans watch the 2018 World Cup semi final soccer match between Croatia and England in Russia, at Nottingham Castle, England, Wednesday, July 11, 2018. (David Davies/PA via AP)

England soccer fans celebrate England's opening goal as they watch a live broadcast on a big screen of the semifinal match between Croatia and England at the 2018 soccer World Cup, in Flat Iron Square, south London, Wednesday, July 11, 2018. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno) less

England soccer fans celebrate England's opening goal as they watch a live broadcast on a big screen of the semifinal match between Croatia and England at the 2018 soccer World Cup, in Flat Iron Square, south ... more

England soccer fans react after Croatia scored their side's first goal as they watch a live broadcast on a big screen of the semifinal match between Croatia and England at the 2018 soccer World Cup, in Flat Iron Square, south London, Wednesday, July 11, 2018. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno) less

England soccer fans react after Croatia scored their side's first goal as they watch a live broadcast on a big screen of the semifinal match between Croatia and England at the 2018 soccer World Cup, in Flat ... more

Fans react after Croatia equalized, as they watch the 2018 World Cup semi final soccer match between Croatia and England in Russia, at the Castlefield Bowl in Manchester, England, Wednesday, July 11, 2018. (Martin Rickett/PA via AP) less

Fans react after Croatia equalized, as they watch the 2018 World Cup semi final soccer match between Croatia and England in Russia, at the Castlefield Bowl in Manchester, England, Wednesday, July 11, 2018. ... more

Croatian soccer fans react to their team missing a goal while watching the Russia 2018 World Cup soccer match between Croatia and England at the St. Anthony's Croatian Catholic Church in Los Angeles on Wednesday, July 11, 2018. (AP Photo/Richard Vogel) less

Croatian soccer fans react to their team missing a goal while watching the Russia 2018 World Cup soccer match between Croatia and England at the St. Anthony's Croatian Catholic Church in Los Angeles on ... more

England soccer fan reacts as he watches a live broadcast on a big screen of the semifinal match between Croatia and England at the 2018 soccer World Cup, in Hyde Park, London, Wednesday, July 11, 2018. (AP Photo/Matt Dunham) less

England soccer fan reacts as he watches a live broadcast on a big screen of the semifinal match between Croatia and England at the 2018 soccer World Cup, in Hyde Park, London, Wednesday, July 11, 2018. (AP ... more

England soccer fans react as they watch a live broadcast on a big screen of the semifinal match between Croatia and England at the 2018 soccer World Cup, in Hyde Park, London, Wednesday, July 11, 2018. (AP Photo/Matt Dunham) less

England soccer fans react as they watch a live broadcast on a big screen of the semifinal match between Croatia and England at the 2018 soccer World Cup, in Hyde Park, London, Wednesday, July 11, 2018. (AP ... more

A young fan is consoled as he watches the 2018 World Cup semi final soccer match between Croatia and England in Russia, at the Castlefield Bowl in Manchester, England, Wednesday, July 11, 2018. (Martin Rickett/PA via AP) less

A young fan is consoled as he watches the 2018 World Cup semi final soccer match between Croatia and England in Russia, at the Castlefield Bowl in Manchester, England, Wednesday, July 11, 2018. (Martin ... more

Croatia fans celebrate their team's second goal during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Semi Final match between England and Croatia at Luzhniki Stadium on July 11, 2018 in Moscow, Russia.

Croatia's supporters react as they watch on a giant screen the Russia 2018 World Cup semi-final football match between Croatia and England, at the main square in Zagreb on July 11, 2018.

Croatia's supporters react as they watch on a giant screen the Russia 2018 World Cup semi-final football match between Croatia and England, at the main square in Zagreb on July 11, 2018.

A Croatia's supporter holds a flare as supporters watch on a giant screen the Russia 2018 World Cup semi-final football match between Croatia and England, at the main square in Zagreb on July 11, 2018.

Croatia's supporters celebrate the second goal as they watch on a giant screen the Russia 2018 World Cup semi-final football match between Croatia and England, at the main square in Zagreb on July 11, 2018.

Fansare dejected following England's loss in the 2018 World Cup semi final soccer match between Croatia and England in Russia, at the Castlefield Bowl in Manchester, England, Wednesday, July 11, 2018. (Martin Rickett/PA via AP) less

Fansare dejected following England's loss in the 2018 World Cup semi final soccer match between Croatia and England in Russia, at the Castlefield Bowl in Manchester, England, Wednesday, July 11, 2018. (Martin ... more

Croatia supporters celebrate their victory during the Russia 2018 World Cup semi-final football match between Croatia and England at the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow on July 11, 2018. Croatia will play France in the World Cup final after they beat England 2-1 in extra-time on Wednesday thanks to a Mario Mandzukic goal in the second period of extra-time. less

Croatia supporters celebrate their victory during the Russia 2018 World Cup semi-final football match between Croatia and England at the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow on July 11, 2018. Croatia will play France in ... more

England soccer fans react after Croatia scored their side's second goal as they watch a live broadcast on a big screen of the semifinal match between Croatia and England at the 2018 soccer World Cup, in Flat Iron Square, south London, Wednesday, July 11, 2018. less

England soccer fans react after Croatia scored their side's second goal as they watch a live broadcast on a big screen of the semifinal match between Croatia and England at the 2018 soccer World Cup, in Flat ... more

Croatia's supporters celebrate the second goal as they watch on a giant screen the Russia 2018 World Cup semi-final football match between Croatia and England, at the main square in Zagreb on July 11, 2018.

Croatia's Mario Mandzukic apologizes to a photographer he fell over when celebrating his side's second goal during the semifinal match between Croatia and England at the 2018 soccer World Cup in the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow, Russia, Wednesday, July 11, 2018. less

Croatia's Mario Mandzukic apologizes to a photographer he fell over when celebrating his side's second goal during the semifinal match between Croatia and England at the 2018 soccer World Cup in the Luzhniki ... more

England's Kyle Walker reacts after Croatia's Mario Mandzukic scoring his side's second goal during the semifinal match between Croatia and England at the 2018 soccer World Cup in the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow, Russia, Wednesday, July 11, 2018. less

England's Kyle Walker reacts after Croatia's Mario Mandzukic scoring his side's second goal during the semifinal match between Croatia and England at the 2018 soccer World Cup in the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow, ... more

England's Kieran Trippier is celebrated after scoring the opening goal during the semifinal match between Croatia and England at the 2018 soccer World Cup in the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow, Russia, Wednesday, July 11, 2018. less

England's Kieran Trippier is celebrated after scoring the opening goal during the semifinal match between Croatia and England at the 2018 soccer World Cup in the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow, Russia, Wednesday, ... more

England's Kieran Trippier celebrates after scoring the opening goal during the semifinal match between Croatia and England at the 2018 soccer World Cup in the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow, Russia, Wednesday, July 11, 2018. less

England's Kieran Trippier celebrates after scoring the opening goal during the semifinal match between Croatia and England at the 2018 soccer World Cup in the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow, Russia, Wednesday, July ... more

Croatia's Ivan Perisic celebrates after scoring his side's first goal during the semifinal match between Croatia and England at the 2018 soccer World Cup in the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow, Russia, Wednesday, July 11, 2018. less

Croatia's Ivan Perisic celebrates after scoring his side's first goal during the semifinal match between Croatia and England at the 2018 soccer World Cup in the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow, Russia, Wednesday, ... more

Croatia's Mario Mandzukic celebrates after scoring his side's second goal during the semifinal match between Croatia and England at the 2018 soccer World Cup in the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow, Russia, Wednesday, July 11, 2018. less

Croatia's Mario Mandzukic celebrates after scoring his side's second goal during the semifinal match between Croatia and England at the 2018 soccer World Cup in the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow, Russia, ... more

Domagoj Vida of Croatia celebrates with his son following his sides victory in the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Semi Final match between England and Croatia at Luzhniki Stadium on July 11, 2018 in Moscow, Russia.

Croatia's Mario Mandzukic, sits on the ground after he fell over a photographer when celebrating his side's second goal during the semifinal match between Croatia and England at the 2018 soccer World Cup in the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow, Russia, Wednesday, July 11, 2018. less

Croatia's Mario Mandzukic, sits on the ground after he fell over a photographer when celebrating his side's second goal during the semifinal match between Croatia and England at the 2018 soccer World Cup in the ... more

Jordan Pickford of England lies on the floor dejected as Sime Vrsaljko of Croatia celebrates winning the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Semi Final match between England and Croatia at Luzhniki Stadium on July 11, 2018 in Moscow, Russia. less

Jordan Pickford of England lies on the floor dejected as Sime Vrsaljko of Croatia celebrates winning the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Semi Final match between England and Croatia at Luzhniki Stadium on July 11, ... more

Croatia's Luka Modric, left, Sime Vrsaljko and Ivan Rakitic, right, celebrate after Croatia's Mario Mandzukic scored his side's second goal during the semifinal match between Croatia and England at the 2018 soccer World Cup in the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow, Russia, Wednesday, July 11, 2018. (AP Photo/Frank Augstein) less

Croatia's Luka Modric, left, Sime Vrsaljko and Ivan Rakitic, right, celebrate after Croatia's Mario Mandzukic scored his side's second goal during the semifinal match between Croatia and England at the 2018 ... more

Croatia's Mario Mandzukic, center, celebrates after scoring his side's second goal during the semifinal match between Croatia and England at the 2018 soccer World Cup in the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow, Russia, Wednesday, July 11, 2018. less

Croatia's Mario Mandzukic, center, celebrates after scoring his side's second goal during the semifinal match between Croatia and England at the 2018 soccer World Cup in the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow, Russia, ... more

MOSCOW (AP) — Croatia's legs seemed heavy, burdened by the accumulated toll of consecutive penalty-kicks wins needed to get this far. England had gone ahead with a free kick just five minutes in, dominated play and appeared headed to its first World Cup final since 1966.

Then the second half started and it was as if a different Croatian team had replaced the lethargic one.

Ivan Perisic tied the score in the 68th minute , Mario Mandzukic got the go-ahead goal in the 109th and Croatia shocked England with a 2-1 victory Wednesday that advanced a nation of just over 4 million to a World Cup final against France.

"Mentally strong team," midfielder Ivan Rakitic said. "It's just unbelievable to get back in the game in this way."

When the final whistle blew and they knew they were going to their first World Cup final, the Croatians ran to their jumping and cheering fans in their iconic red-and-white checkered jerseys. Croatia joined an exclusive club of 13 nations that advanced to a World Cup final, doing it in a tournament where powers Brazil, Germany, Argentina and Spain made early exits.

"They've had an incredible route to the final. They've shown remarkable character," said England coach Gareth Southgate, who for now will be remembered more for a fashionable waistcoat than ending a half-century of hurt.

France, which won its only title at home in 1998, will have an extra day of rest after beating Belgium 1-0 on Tuesday.

Croatia, coming off 360 intense minutes at soccer's highest level, faces its biggest sporting moment since becoming an independent nation in 1991.

"We started slowly, but we've shown our character, just as we did in the previous two knockout rounds when we were one-goal down," Perisic said.

Fans back home in Zagreb took to the streets to celebrate, lighting flares and waving flags in a sea of exuberance.

"We are a nation of people who never give in, who are proud and who have character," said coach Zlatko Dalic, who wore a checkered jersey to his post-match news conference. "There's no weakness in a team that is in the final."

England was not among the top 10 nation in ticket sales before the tournament, but the team's progress caused gallivanting supporters to flock to Moscow.

The front of the stands behind one goal was filled with more than two dozen white banners with a red Cross of St. George, pledging support from many of the island's clubs, from Bradford to Wolverhampton. Back home, a crowd of 30,000 was in London's Hyde Park for a large-screen viewing, the British Beer and Pub Association predicted supporters would buy 10 million extra pints at pubs during the match, and No.1 Court at Wimbledon was less than one-third full for the men's quarterfinal between John Isner and Milos Raonic.

Promise seemed about to be fulfilled when Kieran Trippier curled in a free kick in the fifth minute for his first international goal, above leaping Dejan Lovren and Mandzukic and past the desperate dive of goalkeeper Danijel Subasic. Choruses of "God Save the Queen" began in England's end.

"We had a couple chances after that to get the second, give ourselves a bit more breathing room," England captain Harry Kane said.

Football will not be coming home to England, and there will be no title to match the 1966 triumph at Wembley Stadium. Kane & Co. will deal with the same disappointment that felled Shearer and Platt, Gazza and Wazza, Beckham and Gerrard. And Southgate, whose penalty-kick failure led to England's previous semifinal loss in a major tournament, in the 1996 European Championship semifinals.

"Impossible to say anything to them that is going to make them feel better at this point," Southgate said after England's fourth straight loss in a major tournament semifinal.

Croatia tied the score after Rakitic switched the ball from left flank to right, where Vrsaljko crossed. Kyle Walker attempted a diving header to clear. Perisic jumped and from behind raised his left boot over Walker's head to poke the ball past goalkeeper Jordan Pickford from about 8 yards for his fourth goal in the tournament.

England had its moments to go back ahead, but Lingard failed to connect with a Kane through ball in 78th, and Kane miss-hit a header off a free kick in stoppage time.

Croatia defender Sime Vrsaljko kept the score even nine minutes into extra time with a goal-line clearance of John Stones' header off a corner kick. Then Croatia became the first team since Argentina beat Italy in 1990 to come from behind to win a World Cup semifinal match

Mandzukic scored after Walker stuck out a leg to block Josip Pivaric's cross. The ball popped up, and Perisic outjumped Trippier to head the ball toward goal. Mandzukic alertly reacted to the unexpected ball in the penalty area, splitting defenders Stones and Harry Maguire, who both had taken four short steps up. The ball bounced twice, Mandzukic ran onto it and one-timed a low, left-footed shot to Pickford's left.

"Three times 120 minutes and fresher legs today than the English team," Lovren marveled.

Mandzukic ran to a corner and was mobbed by teammates, who jumped on him and trapped photographers under them in the crush.

Not long after, Dalic was thinking about the short recovery time before the final.

"It's our fault. Why didn't we score earlier?" he said. "Why didn't we finish the job in regulation time?"

"We still have lots of energy in the tank," he said.

No players are suspended for the final.

Croatia defender Domagoj Vida was jeered by fans whenever he touched the ball. He received a warning from FIFA for shouting "glory to Ukraine" in a video posted after Croatia beat Russia in the quarterfinals.</s>MOSCOW >> A World Cup of surprises concludes with a final of contrasts.

Powered by the dynamism of Kylian Mbappe, France has youthful exuberance in a side packed with some of soccer’s highest-value talent. It also has pedigree — winners in 1998 and finalists in 2006.

Croatia has a veteran roster that has been stretched to the limit but continues to win in Russia. The Croats never give in, prevailing in a shootout against Denmark, again on penalties against Russia — after being stung by a late equalizer — and then recovering from conceding early against England.

Just don’t suggest Croatia will be weary in the final when it returns to the Luzhniki Stadium on July 15.

Croatia’s star midfielder Luka Modric said “we will see who will be tired” was the team ethos going into the July 11 semifinal, feeling Croatia had been under-estimated by the English.

Modric, along with Mario Mandzukic, are the 32-year-olds who have propelled Croatia to its first major soccer final. In the previous four World Cups: Croatia failed to qualify in 2010 and was ousted in the group stage the other three occasions.

Before then, in its World Cup debut in 1998, Croatia did reach the semifinals, where it lost to France.

When Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic visited the team hotel in Moscow on July 11 that 1998 game was on his mind — even before beating England.

“We might have the chance for the revenge in the finals with the French,” Plenkovic said.

Now they get it.

Croatia advanced to its first World Cup final with a 2-1 extra-time win over England on July 11. France beat Belgium 1-0 a night earlier.

“We have a good opportunity to give them something back for 20 years ago when they reached the final,” Croatia defender Dejan Lovren said. “Maybe it’s our time to revenge something but it’s a tough game and it will be difficult.”

A country of 65 million, France has stars like 19-year-old sensation Mbappe, midfielder Paul Pogba and striker Antoine Griezmann.

Croatia is the fourth-smallest country of the 32 World Cup teams with just over 4 million people. It has a chance to be the least-populous nation to win since Uruguay took the title in 1950, when it was a nation of just over 2 million.
Croatia defeats England 2–1 after extra time, advancing to their first-ever World Cup final, which will be against France on July 15.