France's World Cup 2018 Journey: All Matches & Results

France's victorious run in the 2018 FIFA World Cup was a captivating journey filled with memorable moments, strategic masterclasses, and sheer brilliance. Les Bleus, led by Didier Deschamps, showcased a blend of youthful exuberance and experienced leadership, ultimately culminating in their second World Cup title. Let's dive deep into each match of their remarkable campaign, reliving the excitement and analyzing the key factors that contributed to their success.

Group Stage: Laying the Foundation

France's World Cup journey began in Group C, where they faced Australia, Peru, and Denmark. While their performances in the group stage weren't always dazzling, they were efficient enough to secure their place in the knockout rounds. These initial matches were crucial for building momentum and fine-tuning their strategies.

France vs. Australia: A Narrow Escape

Their opening match against Australia in Kazan was a closely contested affair. France secured a 2-1 victory, but not without a fight. Antoine Griezmann opened the scoring with a penalty awarded after VAR intervention, marking a historic moment as one of the first major decisions influenced by the technology in the World Cup. Australia, however, responded with a penalty of their own, converted by Mile Jedinak. The match appeared to be heading for a draw until a deflected shot from Paul Pogba in the 81st minute looped over the Australian goalkeeper, securing a narrow win for France. This match highlighted both France's attacking potential and their vulnerability at the back. The nervous win served as a wake-up call, reminding them that no opponent could be taken lightly. Deschamps' tactical choices were scrutinized, with some questioning the team's fluidity in attack. However, the three points were crucial in setting the tone for the rest of the tournament.

France vs. Peru: Securing Qualification

France's second group match against Peru saw them deliver a more composed performance. They secured a 1-0 victory thanks to a goal from Kylian Mbappé, who became France's youngest ever goalscorer in a major tournament. The match was a display of France's defensive solidity and their ability to control the game. Peru, known for their passionate support and attacking flair, found it difficult to break down the French defense. N'Golo Kanté and Paul Pogba dominated the midfield, snuffing out any potential threats. While the scoreline suggested a close game, France were largely in control, dictating the tempo and creating several opportunities. This win guaranteed France's place in the knockout stages, allowing them to approach their final group match with less pressure. The team's confidence grew, and the players began to develop a better understanding of each other's strengths and weaknesses.

France vs. Denmark: A Tame Draw

France's final group match against Denmark ended in a 0-0 draw, the only goalless draw of the entire tournament. With both teams already virtually assured of qualification, the match lacked intensity and attacking intent. The result ensured that France topped Group C, setting up a potentially favorable draw in the round of 16. However, the match was criticized for its lack of entertainment, with both teams seemingly content to play out a draw. Deschamps used the opportunity to rest key players and give some of the squad's fringe members a chance to impress. While the draw wasn't the most exciting spectacle, it served its purpose in securing France's position as group winners and allowing them to conserve energy for the knockout stages.

Knockout Stage: Rising to the Occasion

France's knockout stage journey was a testament to their resilience, tactical flexibility, and individual brilliance. They faced a series of tough opponents, each presenting unique challenges, but France rose to the occasion, showcasing their championship pedigree.

Round of 16: France vs. Argentina: A Thrilling Spectacle

France's round of 16 clash against Argentina was arguably the most exciting match of the entire tournament. The match ended in a 4-3 victory for France, but the scoreline doesn't fully capture the drama and excitement of the encounter. Antoine Griezmann opened the scoring with a penalty, but Argentina responded with two stunning goals from Ángel Di María and Gabriel Mercado. France then mounted a remarkable comeback, with Benjamin Pavard scoring a sensational volley and Kylian Mbappé netting two goals in quick succession. Sergio Agüero scored a late consolation goal for Argentina, but it wasn't enough to prevent France from advancing to the quarter-finals. Mbappé's performance was particularly noteworthy, as he announced himself on the world stage with his blistering pace and clinical finishing. The match was a tactical battle, with both teams showcasing their attacking prowess. However, France's superior organization and defensive resilience ultimately proved to be the difference. This victory was a statement of intent, signaling that France were serious contenders for the title.

Quarter-Final: France vs. Uruguay: A Controlled Performance

France's quarter-final match against Uruguay was a more controlled and mature performance compared to their encounter with Argentina. They secured a 2-0 victory, with goals from Raphaël Varane and Antoine Griezmann. Uruguay, who were without their injured star striker Edinson Cavani, struggled to create clear-cut chances. France dominated possession and controlled the tempo of the game, limiting Uruguay's attacking threat. Varane's towering header from a free-kick opened the scoring, while Griezmann's long-range shot was fumbled by the Uruguayan goalkeeper, Fernando Muslera, sealing the victory for France. This match demonstrated France's tactical versatility and their ability to adapt to different opponents. They were able to nullify Uruguay's attacking threat while also creating chances of their own. The win was a testament to their defensive solidity and their clinical finishing.

Semi-Final: France vs. Belgium: A Tactical Masterclass

France's semi-final match against Belgium was a tactical masterclass. They secured a 1-0 victory thanks to a goal from Samuel Umtiti. The match was a tightly contested affair, with both teams showcasing their defensive strengths. France's defense, led by Varane and Umtiti, was particularly impressive, keeping Belgium's star-studded attack at bay. Belgium, who had eliminated Brazil in the previous round, were considered by many to be the favorites to win the tournament. However, France's tactical discipline and defensive organization proved to be too much for them. The match was a cagey affair, with few clear-cut chances. However, Umtiti's header from a corner kick proved to be the decisive moment, sending France to the final. This victory was a testament to France's defensive prowess and their ability to grind out results in tight matches.

Final: France vs. Croatia: Claiming the Crown

France's final match against Croatia was a thrilling encounter that ended in a 4-2 victory for Les Bleus, securing their second World Cup title. The match was full of drama, controversy, and stunning goals. France took the lead through an own goal by Mario Mandžukić, but Croatia responded with a stunning equalizer from Ivan Perišić. France then regained the lead through a penalty awarded after VAR intervention, converted by Antoine Griezmann. In the second half, France extended their lead with two goals from Paul Pogba and Kylian Mbappé. Mandžukić scored a late consolation goal for Croatia, but it wasn't enough to prevent France from lifting the trophy. The match was a fitting end to a remarkable tournament, with both teams giving their all. France's victory was a testament to their talent, team spirit, and tactical brilliance. They had overcome numerous challenges throughout the tournament, and their triumph was well-deserved. The celebrations that followed were a sight to behold, as France celebrated their victory with passion and pride.

France's World Cup 2018 victory was a triumph of teamwork, tactical acumen, and individual brilliance. From their narrow escape against Australia to their dominant performance in the final against Croatia, Les Bleus captivated the world with their exciting brand of football. The journey was filled with memorable moments, strategic masterclasses, and sheer determination. The names of Griezmann, Mbappé, Pogba, Kanté, and Varane will forever be etched in the annals of French football history. France's victory was a source of immense pride for the nation, and it cemented their place as one of the world's leading footballing powers. So, remember guys, France's journey to the 2018 World Cup was not just a series of matches; it was a story of dedication, resilience, and ultimately, triumph.