World Cup Final 2018: France vs Croatia, 3 key battles to watch out for

#2 Mario Mandzukic vs Samuel Umtiti

Will Mario Mandzukic score against France in the final?

Croatia’s goal-scoring responsibilities against France will primarily lie with Mario Mandzzukic. Deployed as a lone striker, Mandzukic has found the back of the net twice in the tournament, including the winner against England in extra time and has provided one assist as well.

The Juventus Forward is strong in the air. At 6’3”, he has a slight advantage in height over France Center back Samuel Umtiti and hence; will be the target man for the long balls inside France’s penalty area.

The Sunday’s showdown, like most World Cup finals, is expected to be a cagey affair and therefore Mandzukic’s movements in the box will be extremely crucial from Croatian point of view. However, it’s easier said than done as he will be up against a strong defensive unit which, barring a crazy game against Argentina, has conceded just one goal in five matches.

Whoever wins this battle, it will make for an interesting viewing, that’s a given.