Key moments from France’s electrifying World Cup final win

By Matias Grez, CNN
Updated 3:17 PM EDT, Sun July 15, 2018
French players celebrate with the World Cup trophy after defeating Croatia in the final on Sunday, July 15.
French players celebrate with the World Cup trophy after defeating Croatia in the final on Sunday, July 15.
Lars Baron/FIFA/Getty Images
French midfielder Paul Pogba celebrates with the trophy.
French midfielder Paul Pogba celebrates with the trophy.
David Ramos/FIFA/Getty Images
France mobs Kylian Mbappe after his goal gave the team a 4-1 lead.
France mobs Kylian Mbappe after his goal gave the team a 4-1 lead.
Clive Rose/Getty Images
Croatia's Ivan Strinic reacts during the match.
Croatia's Ivan Strinic reacts during the match.
Valery Sharifulin/TASS/Getty Images
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.
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.
Thanassis Stavrakis/AP
French goalkeeper Hugo Lloris makes a jumping save against Croatia.
French goalkeeper Hugo Lloris makes a jumping save against Croatia.
FRANCOIS-XAVIER MARIT/AFP/Getty Images
French players celebrate after the final whistle.
French players celebrate after the final whistle.
Clive Rose/Getty Images
French President Emmanuel Macron shows his excitement while watching the match.
French President Emmanuel Macron shows his excitement while watching the match.
Alexei Nikolsky/Sputnik/Pool/AP
Paul Pogba, bottom, runs to the corner after scoring France's third goal.
Paul Pogba, bottom, runs to the corner after scoring France's third goal.
Ryan Pierse/Getty Images
France's Lucas Hernandez tackles Ante Rebic.
France's Lucas Hernandez tackles Ante Rebic.
Petr David Josek/AP
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.
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.
Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images
Perisic, bottom left, scored a spectacular first-half goal to tie the match at 1-1.
Perisic, bottom left, scored a spectacular first-half goal to tie the match at 1-1.
Catherine Ivill/Getty Images
Will Smith and Nicky Jam perform during the closing ceremony held before the final.
Will Smith and Nicky Jam perform during the closing ceremony held before the final.
Matthias Hangst/Getty Images
Belgian players celebrate Eden Hazard's goal in the third-place match against England on Saturday, July 14. The Belgians won 2-0.
Belgian players celebrate Eden Hazard's goal in the third-place match against England on Saturday, July 14. The Belgians won 2-0.
Lars Baron/FIFA/FIFA/Getty Images
Thomas Meunier opened the scoring for Belgium in the fourth minute.
Thomas Meunier opened the scoring for Belgium in the fourth minute.
Catherine Ivill/Getty Images
English goalkeeper Jordan Pickford reacts after the first goal against Belgium.
English goalkeeper Jordan Pickford reacts after the first goal against Belgium.
Catherine Ivill/Getty Images
Mario Mandzukic scores against England late in extra time to give Croatia a 2-1 victory in the semifinals on Wednesday, July 11.
Mario Mandzukic scores against England late in extra time to give Croatia a 2-1 victory in the semifinals on Wednesday, July 11.
Jewel Samad/AFP/Getty Images
Mandzukic celebrates after his goal.
Mandzukic celebrates after his goal.
Frank Augstein/AP
Croatia's Ivan Strinic, right, challenges England's Jesse Lingard.
Croatia's Ivan Strinic, right, challenges England's Jesse Lingard.
Francisco Seco/AP
Croatian defender Sime Vrsaljko goes over Ashley Young for a header.
Croatian defender Sime Vrsaljko goes over Ashley Young for a header.
Franck Fife/AFP/Getty Images
A photographer is knocked over by members of the Croatian team as they celebrate the late Mandzukic goal.
A photographer is knocked over by members of the Croatian team as they celebrate the late Mandzukic goal.
Michael Regan/FIFA/Getty Images
Players collide during the Croatia-England semifinal. Croatia played 120 minutes for the third straight match.
Players collide during the Croatia-England semifinal. Croatia played 120 minutes for the third straight match.
Valery Sharifulin/TASS/Getty Images
Lingard shields the ball in the corner.
Lingard shields the ball in the corner.
Felipe Trueba/EFE/EPA
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.
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.
Petr David Josek/AP
France's Olivier Giroud kisses teammate Samuel Umtiti after Umtiti scored on a header against Belgium.
France's Olivier Giroud kisses teammate Samuel Umtiti after Umtiti scored on a header against Belgium.
Shaun Botterill/Getty Images
Giroud is challenged by Belgium defender Vincent Kompany.
Giroud is challenged by Belgium defender Vincent Kompany.
Dmitri Lovetsky/AP
France's teenage sensation, Kylian Mbappe, jumps over Belgian goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois.
France's teenage sensation, Kylian Mbappe, jumps over Belgian goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois.
ODD ANDERSEN/AFP/Getty Images
Thierry Henry, assistant coach for Belgium and former French captain, consoles Belgian players after the semifinal loss.
Thierry Henry, assistant coach for Belgium and former French captain, consoles Belgian players after the semifinal loss.
Petr David Josek/AP
Luka Modric jumps for the ball during Croatia's quarterfinal victory over Russia on July 7.
Luka Modric jumps for the ball during Croatia's quarterfinal victory over Russia on July 7.
Darko Bandic/AP
Croatian players celebrate after defeating Russia in a penalty shootout. The match was tied 2-2 after extra time.
Croatian players celebrate after defeating Russia in a penalty shootout. The match was tied 2-2 after extra time.
PIERRE-PHILIPPE MARCOU/AFP/Getty Images
Russian forward Fedor Smolov reacts after the Croatia match.
Russian forward Fedor Smolov reacts after the Croatia match.
KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV/AFP/Getty Images
Croatia's Mario Mandzukic, left, and Russia's Mario Fernandes go for the ball.
Croatia's Mario Mandzukic, left, and Russia's Mario Fernandes go for the ball.
Rebecca Blackwell/AP
Croatia's Andrej Kramaric celebrates after scoring the opening goal against Russia.
Croatia's Andrej Kramaric celebrates after scoring the opening goal against Russia.
Darko Bandic/AP
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.
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.
FABRICE COFFRINI/AFP/Getty Images
English manager Gareth Southgate celebrates his team's win.
English manager Gareth Southgate celebrates his team's win.
Ian MacNicol/Getty Images
Dele Alli scores on a header for England's second goal.
Dele Alli scores on a header for England's second goal.
Robbie Jay Barratt/AMA/Getty Images
Swedish players are dejected at the end of the match.
Swedish players are dejected at the end of the match.
Robbie Jay Barratt/AMA/Getty Images
Belgian players celebrate the second goal in their 2-1 win over Brazil on July 6. They advanced to play France in the semifinals.
Belgian players celebrate the second goal in their 2-1 win over Brazil on July 6. They advanced to play France in the semifinals.
ROMAN KRUCHININ/AFP/Getty Images
Brazilian star Neymar reacts after the final whistle.
Brazilian star Neymar reacts after the final whistle.
EMMANUEL DUNAND/AFP/Getty Images
Belgium celebrates their first goal, which came off a deflected header in the 13th minute.
Belgium celebrates their first goal, which came off a deflected header in the 13th minute.
SAEED KHAN/AFP/Getty Images
Belgian goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois leaps for a loose ball in the box.
Belgian goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois leaps for a loose ball in the box.
AFP/Getty Images
Kevin De Bruyne controls the ball against Brazil.
Kevin De Bruyne controls the ball against Brazil.
ROMAN KRUCHININ/AFP/Getty Images
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.
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.
Richard Heathcote/Getty Images
Uruguayan goalkeeper Fernando Muslera watches the ball leak into the net after he misplayed an Antoine Griezmann shot in the second half.
Uruguayan goalkeeper Fernando Muslera watches the ball leak into the net after he misplayed an Antoine Griezmann shot in the second half.
Richard Heathcote/Getty Images
France's Benjamin Pavard, top, and Uruguay's Cristian Rodriguez compete for a header.
France's Benjamin Pavard, top, and Uruguay's Cristian Rodriguez compete for a header.
Petr David Josek/AP
A France supporter cheers ahead of the match.
A France supporter cheers ahead of the match.
JOHANNES EISELE/AFP/Getty Images
English players react after their shootout win over Colombia on July 3. It was England's first-ever shootout win at a 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.
Facundo Arrizabalaga/EPA/EFE
Colombian striker Radamel Falcao heads the ball toward goal on July 3.
Colombian striker Radamel Falcao heads the ball toward goal on July 3.
Clive Rose/Getty Images
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.
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.
Matthias Schrader/AP
Falcao reacts after receiving a yellow card.
Falcao reacts after receiving a yellow card.
Robbie Jay Barratt/AMA/Getty Images
Sweden's Emil Forsberg, left, celebrates after scoring against Switzerland on July 3. Sweden won 1-0 to advance to the quarterfinals.
Sweden's Emil Forsberg, left, celebrates after scoring against Switzerland on July 3. Sweden won 1-0 to advance to the quarterfinals.
Matthew Ashton/AMA/Getty Images
A Sweden fan shows his support during the Switzerland match.
A Sweden fan shows his support during the Switzerland match.
Alex Livesey/Getty Images
Switzerland's Xherdan Shaqiri is challenged by Ludwig Augustinsson.
Switzerland's Xherdan Shaqiri is challenged by Ludwig Augustinsson.
Julian Finney/Getty Images
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.
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.
Rebecca Blackwell/AP
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.
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.
Hassan Ammar/AP
A Japan supporter cries after the match.
A Japan supporter cries after the match.
Petr David Josek/AP
Takashi Inui, left, gave Japan a 2-0 lead early in the second half.
Takashi Inui, left, gave Japan a 2-0 lead early in the second half.
Odd Andersen/AFP/Getty Images
Belgium defender Vincent Kompany nearly scores in the first half.
Belgium defender Vincent Kompany nearly scores in the first half.
Petr David Josek/AP
Brazilian star Neymar is fouled by Mexican defender Edson Alvarez during their round-of-16 match on July 2. Brazil won 2-0.
Brazilian star Neymar is fouled by Mexican defender Edson Alvarez during their round-of-16 match on July 2. Brazil won 2-0.
EMMANUEL DUNAND/AFP/Getty Images
Neymar stretches for a cross to score Brazil's first goal in the 51st minute.
Neymar stretches for a cross to score Brazil's first goal in the 51st minute.
Clive Rose/Getty Images
Neymar is held on Paulinho's shoulders after the first goal.
Neymar is held on Paulinho's shoulders after the first goal.
Frank Augstein/AP
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.
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.
Sergei Bobylev/TASS/Getty Images
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.
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.
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Croatia's Ivan Perisic stops the ball during the Denmark match.
Croatia's Ivan Perisic stops the ball during the Denmark match.
Martin Meissner/AP
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.
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.
Joosep Martinson/FIFA/Getty Images
Russian players mob Akinfeev after the final save.
Russian players mob Akinfeev after the final save.
Dan Mullan/Getty Images
Russia's Artem Dzyuba celebrates after scoring against Spain in the first half.
Russia's Artem Dzyuba celebrates after scoring against Spain in the first half.
Antonio Calanni/AP
Spain's Isco and Russia's Mario Fernandes vie for the ball.
Spain's Isco and Russia's Mario Fernandes vie for the ball.
Antonin Thuillier/AFP/Getty Images
Dzyuba is defended by Sergio Busquets.
Dzyuba is defended by Sergio Busquets.
Clive Rose/Getty Images
Edinson Cavani celebrates his second goal in a 2-0 victory over Portugal on June 30.
Edinson Cavani celebrates his second goal in a 2-0 victory over Portugal on June 30.
Richard Heathcote/Getty Images
Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo receives a yellow card from referee Cesar Ramos near the end of the match.
Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo receives a yellow card from referee Cesar Ramos near the end of the match.
Matthew Ashton/AMA/Getty Images
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.
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.
Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images
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.
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.
Michael Regan/FIFA/Getty Images
An Argentina fan reacts after the match.
An Argentina fan reacts after the match.
Thanassis Stavrakis/AP
Gabriel Mercado deflected a Messi shot past Hugo Lloris to give Argentina a brief 2-1 lead.
Gabriel Mercado deflected a Messi shot past Hugo Lloris to give Argentina a brief 2-1 lead.
Lars Baron/FIFA/Getty Images
French players celebrate after Benjamin Pavard tied the match at 2-2.
French players celebrate after Benjamin Pavard tied the match at 2-2.
Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images
France fans celebrate during the match against Argentina.
France fans celebrate during the match against Argentina.
Ricardo Mazalan/AP
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.
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.
Stuart Franklin/FIFA/Getty Images
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.
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.
Manan Vatsyayana/AFP/Getty Images
Senegal fans salute before the match against Colombia.
Senegal fans salute before the match against Colombia.
Michael Steele/Getty Images
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.
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.
Eugene Hoshiko/AP
Poland forward Robert Lewandowski dribbles through two Japan players.
Poland forward Robert Lewandowski dribbles through two Japan players.
Themba Hadebe/AP
Japan supporters clear litter from the stands after the match.
Japan supporters clear litter from the stands after the match.
Darko Vojinovic/AP
Belgium's Adnan Januzaj curls in a stunning goal against England on June 28. It was the only goal of the match.
Belgium's Adnan Januzaj curls in a stunning goal against England on June 28. It was the only goal of the match.
Ryan Pierse/Getty Images
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.
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.
Chris Brunskill/Fantasista/Getty Images
Tunisia's Wahbi Khazri, center, celebrates with his teammates after scoring the winning goal against Panama on June 28. Tunisia won 2-1.
Tunisia's Wahbi Khazri, center, celebrates with his teammates after scoring the winning goal against Panama on June 28. Tunisia won 2-1.
Darko Bandic/AP
Panama players celebrate after an own goal gave them an early lead against Tunisia.
Panama players celebrate after an own goal gave them an early lead against Tunisia.
Darko Bandic/AP
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.
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.
Michael Regan/FIFA/Getty Images
South Korea's Lee Jae-sung, left, chases down a ball with Germany's Jonas Hector.
South Korea's Lee Jae-sung, left, chases down a ball with Germany's Jonas Hector.
Frank Augstein/AP
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.
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.
David Ramos/FIFA/Getty Images
Mexican defender Hector Moreno heads the ball in front of Swedish forward Marcus Berg.
Mexican defender Hector Moreno heads the ball in front of Swedish forward Marcus Berg.
JORGE GUERRERO/AFP/Getty Images
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.
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.
Robbie Jay Barratt/AMA/Getty Images
Brazil's Willian and Serbia's Filip Kostic fight for the ball.
Brazil's Willian and Serbia's Filip Kostic fight for the ball.
Valery Sharifulin/TASS/Getty Images
Brazilian star Neymar controls the ball during the Serbia match.
Brazilian star Neymar controls the ball during the Serbia match.
FRANCISCO LEONG/AFP/Getty Images
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.
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.
Natasha Pisarenko/AP
Kendall Waston had a goal for Costa Rica in the match against Switzerland.
Kendall Waston had a goal for Costa Rica in the match against Switzerland.
Clive Brunskill/Getty Images
Costa Rican defender Cristian Gamboa, right, closes in on Switzerland's Ricardo Rodriguez.
Costa Rican defender Cristian Gamboa, right, closes in on Switzerland's Ricardo Rodriguez.
JOHANNES EISELE/AFP/Getty Images
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.
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.
Cezaro De Luca/picture alliance/Getty Images
Rojo controls the ball earlier in the match against Nigeria.
Rojo controls the ball earlier in the match against Nigeria.
Olga Maltseva/AFP/Getty Images
Argentina legend Diego Maradona was in the crowd once again, drawing attention from fans just as he did when he was a player.
Argentina legend Diego Maradona was in the crowd once again, drawing attention from fans just as he did when he was a player.
Giuseppe Cacace/AFP/Getty Images
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.
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.
Natacha Pisarenko/AP
Croatia supporters kiss ahead of the match against Iceland.
Croatia supporters kiss ahead of the match against Iceland.
Pascal Guyot/AFP/Getty Images
Danish players acknowledge fans after their scoreless draw with France on June 26. Both teams advanced to the knockout stage.
Danish players acknowledge fans after their scoreless draw with France on June 26. Both teams advanced to the knockout stage.
Dan Mullan/Getty Images
Denmark's Martin Braithwaite, left, is tracked by France's N'Golo Kante, center, and Presnel Kimpembe.
Denmark's Martin Braithwaite, left, is tracked by France's N'Golo Kante, center, and Presnel Kimpembe.
Matthias Hangst/Getty Images
Australian player Mark Milligan is joined by his children after a 2-0 loss to Peru on June 26.
Australian player Mark Milligan is joined by his children after a 2-0 loss to Peru on June 26.
Simon Hofmann/FIFA/Getty Images
Milligan stretches to clear a cross.
Milligan stretches to clear a cross.
Maddie Meyer/Getty Images
Aaron Mooy tugs on the jersey of Peru's Paolo Guerrero.
Aaron Mooy tugs on the jersey of Peru's Paolo Guerrero.
Ronald Wittek/EPA/EFE
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.
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.
Rungroj Yongrit/EPA/EFE
An Iran fan enjoys the pre-match atmosphere.
An Iran fan enjoys the pre-match atmosphere.
Clive Brunskill/Getty Images
Iranian forward Sardar Azmoun shields the ball from Portuguese defender Jose Fonte.
Iranian forward Sardar Azmoun shields the ball from Portuguese defender Jose Fonte.
Mladen Antonov/AFP/Getty Images
Moroccan goalkeeper Munir catches the ball against Spain. That match ended 2-2, with Spain winning the group.
Moroccan goalkeeper Munir catches the ball against Spain. That match ended 2-2, with Spain winning the group.
Francois Nel/Getty Images
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.
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.
Andrew Medichini/AP
Salem Al-Dawsari celebrates with a flip after scoring the match-winning goal against Egypt.
Salem Al-Dawsari celebrates with a flip after scoring the match-winning goal against Egypt.
Darko Vojinovic/AP
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.
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.
Hassan Ammar/AP
A Uruguay fan, right, poses with a Russia fan before the match.
A Uruguay fan, right, poses with a Russia fan before the match.
Fabrice Coffrini/AFP/Getty Images
Uruguayan forward Luis Suarez, left, reacts after the second goal deflected past Russian goalkeeper Igor Akinfeev.
Uruguayan forward Luis Suarez, left, reacts after the second goal deflected past Russian goalkeeper Igor Akinfeev.
Emmanuel Dunand/AFP/Getty Images
Colombian forward Falcao celebrates after scoring against Poland on June 24. Colombia won 3-0.
Colombian forward Falcao celebrates after scoring against Poland on June 24. Colombia won 3-0.
JEWEL SAMAD/AFP/Getty Images
Colombian defender Yerry Mina opened the scoring with a header in the first half.
Colombian defender Yerry Mina opened the scoring with a header in the first half.
Alex Livesey/Getty Images
A Colombia fan before the Poland match.
A Colombia fan before the Poland match.
BENJAMIN CREMEL/AFP/Getty Images
Senegalese players huddle up before the second half of their match against Japan on June 24. The two teams tied 2-2.
Senegalese players huddle up before the second half of their match against Japan on June 24. The two teams tied 2-2.
David Ramos/FIFA/Getty Images
A shot of the crowd at the Ekaterinburg Arena during the Japan-Senegal match.
A shot of the crowd at the Ekaterinburg Arena during the Japan-Senegal match.
ROMAN PILIPEY/EPA
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.
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.
Alex Morton/Getty Images
Panama players gather after their defeat.
Panama players gather after their defeat.
Clive Brunskill/Getty Images
German players celebrate after Toni Kroos scored on a late free kick to stun Sweden 2-1 on June 23.
German players celebrate after Toni Kroos scored on a late free kick to stun Sweden 2-1 on June 23.
Stuart Franklin/FIFA/Getty Images
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.
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.
Efrem Lukatsky/AP
South Korea's Lee Yong, left, duels for the ball with Mexico's Hirving Lozano.
South Korea's Lee Yong, left, duels for the ball with Mexico's Hirving Lozano.
Martin Meissner/AP
A Mexico fan waits for the start of the match against South Korea.
A Mexico fan waits for the start of the match against South Korea.
Lee Jin-man/AP
Belgium's Romelu Lukaku scores against Tunisia on June 23. He had a pair of goals in the match, which Belgium won 5-2.
Belgium's Romelu Lukaku scores against Tunisia on June 23. He had a pair of goals in the match, which Belgium won 5-2.
Kirill Kudryavtsev/AFP/Getty Images
Captain Eden Hazard also scored two for Belgium.
Captain Eden Hazard also scored two for Belgium.
Matthias Schrader/AP
Players watch the ball during the Belgium-Tunisia match.
Players watch the ball during the Belgium-Tunisia match.
Simon Stacpoole/Offside/Getty Images
Belgium's Jan Vertonghen, left, challenges Tunisia's Wahbi Khazri.
Belgium's Jan Vertonghen, left, challenges Tunisia's Wahbi Khazri.
Matthias Schrader/AP
Swiss midfielder Xherdan Shaqiri celebrates after scoring the winning goal against Serbia on June 22. Switzerland won 2-1.
Swiss midfielder Xherdan Shaqiri celebrates after scoring the winning goal against Serbia on June 22. Switzerland won 2-1.
Laurent Gillieron/KEYSTONE/EPA-EFE
Swiss players defend Serbia's Sergej Milinkovic-Savic.
Swiss players defend Serbia's Sergej Milinkovic-Savic.
Martin Divisek/EPA/EFE
Swiss goalkeeper Yann Sommer catches the ball over Milinkovic-Savic.
Swiss goalkeeper Yann Sommer catches the ball over Milinkovic-Savic.
Matthias Schrader/AP
Nigerian midfielder Oghenekaro Etebo kicks the ball during a 2-0 victory over Iceland on June 22.
Nigerian midfielder Oghenekaro Etebo kicks the ball during a 2-0 victory over Iceland on June 22.
Themba Hadebe/AP
Ahmed Musa celebrates after scoring his second goal of the match against Iceland.
Ahmed Musa celebrates after scoring his second goal of the match against Iceland.
Darko Vojinovic/AP
Iceland fans perform their famous viking clap.
Iceland fans perform their famous viking clap.
Shaun Botterill/Getty Images
Neymar celebrates his last-second goal that finished off Brazil's 2-0 victory over Costa Rica on June 22.
Neymar celebrates his last-second goal that finished off Brazil's 2-0 victory over Costa Rica on June 22.
Francois Nel/Getty Images
Neymar taps in his goal late in the match.
Neymar taps in his goal late in the match.
Michael Sohn/AP
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.
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.
Elsa/Getty Images
Croatia's Luka Modric is tackled by Argentina's Nicolas Tagliafico.
Croatia's Luka Modric is tackled by Argentina's Nicolas Tagliafico.
Maja Hitij/FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images
Willy Caballero is dejected after his flubbed clearance gifted Croatia its first goal.
Willy Caballero is dejected after his flubbed clearance gifted Croatia its first goal.
Elsa/Getty Images
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.
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.
David Vincent/AP
Peru's Andre Carrillo is challenged by French players Paul Pogba, left, and N'Golo Kante.
Peru's Andre Carrillo is challenged by French players Paul Pogba, left, and N'Golo Kante.
Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images
A Peruvian supporter waits for the start of the match.
A Peruvian supporter waits for the start of the match.
Natacha Pisarenko/AP
Australia's Robbie Kruse, foreground, and Denmark's Henrik Dalsgaard go for a header during the teams' 1-1 draw on June 21.
Australia's Robbie Kruse, foreground, and Denmark's Henrik Dalsgaard go for a header during the teams' 1-1 draw on June 21.
Martin Meissner/AP
Australia's Joshua Risdon jumps over Thomas Delaney.
Australia's Joshua Risdon jumps over Thomas Delaney.
Fabrice Coffrini/AFP/Getty Images
Spain's Diego Costa, right, celebrates with teammate Isco after scoring against Iran on June 20. Spain won 1-0.
Spain's Diego Costa, right, celebrates with teammate Isco after scoring against Iran on June 20. Spain won 1-0.
Frank Augstein/AP
A fan has his face painted with the colors of the Spanish flag on June 20.
A fan has his face painted with the colors of the Spanish flag on June 20.
Frank Augstein/AP
Referee Andres Cunha speaks with Iranian midfielder Ehsan Hajsafi during the match.
Referee Andres Cunha speaks with Iranian midfielder Ehsan Hajsafi during the match.
ROMAN KRUCHININ/AFP/Getty Images
Cristiano Ronaldo scored the only goal in Portugal's 1-0 win over Morocco on June 20.
Cristiano Ronaldo scored the only goal in Portugal's 1-0 win over Morocco on June 20.
Victor Caivano/AP
Uruguay fans cheer outside the stadium before the match with Saudi Arabia on June 20.
Uruguay fans cheer outside the stadium before the match with Saudi Arabia on June 20.
JOE KLAMAR/AFP/Getty Images
Saudi Arabia's Fahad Al-Muwallad, left, challenges Uruguay's Diego Godin.
Saudi Arabia's Fahad Al-Muwallad, left, challenges Uruguay's Diego Godin.
Andrew Medichini/AP
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.
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.
Ryan Pierse/Getty Images
Mohamed Salah kisses the ball before scoring a penalty for Egypt on June 19. Russia won, however, by a final score of 3-1.
Mohamed Salah kisses the ball before scoring a penalty for Egypt on June 19. Russia won, however, by a final score of 3-1.
Francois Nel/Getty Images
Egypt's Tarek Hamed, left, and Russia's Aleksandr Golovin compete for the ball.
Egypt's Tarek Hamed, left, and Russia's Aleksandr Golovin compete for the ball.
Martin Meissner/AP
Russia's first goal came when the ball deflected off Egypt's Ahmed Fathi.
Russia's first goal came when the ball deflected off Egypt's Ahmed Fathi.
Richard Heathcote/Getty Images
Members of the Senegal team celebrate after defeating Poland 2-1 in their match on June 19.
Members of the Senegal team celebrate after defeating Poland 2-1 in their match on June 19.
Andrew Medichini/AP
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.
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.
Natacha Pisarenko/AP
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.
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.
Anadolu Agency/Getty Images
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.
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.
Sergei Grits/AP
A Tunisia fan shows his dejection after the final whistle.
A Tunisia fan shows his dejection after the final whistle.
Dan Mullan/Getty Images
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.
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.
Vladimir Astapkovich/Sputnik/AP
Panamanian forward Gabriel Torres controls the ball during the match against Belgium.
Panamanian forward Gabriel Torres controls the ball during the match against Belgium.
Adrian Dennis/AFP/Getty Images
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.
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.
Vassil Donev/epa
Switzerland's Steven Zuber celebrates after scoring a goal against Brazil on June 17. The two teams tied 1-1.
Switzerland's Steven Zuber celebrates after scoring a goal against Brazil on June 17. The two teams tied 1-1.
Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images
Brazil's Philippe Coutinho and Switzerland's Breel Embolo compete for the ball.
Brazil's Philippe Coutinho and Switzerland's Breel Embolo compete for the ball.
Joe Klamar/AFP/Getty Images
Brazilian star Neymar recently came back from a foot injury.
Brazilian star Neymar recently came back from a foot injury.
Lars Baron/FIFA via Getty Images
Mexico's Hirving Lozano, left, celebrates with Jesus Gallardo after scoring the only goal in the upset victory over Germany on June 17.
Mexico's Hirving Lozano, left, celebrates with Jesus Gallardo after scoring the only goal in the upset victory over Germany on June 17.
Matthias Hangst/Getty Images
Fans wave German flags before facing off with Mexico.
Fans wave German flags before facing off with Mexico.
FELIPE TRUEBA/EPA
Mexican goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa makes a late save against Mario Gomez.
Mexican goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa makes a late save against Mario Gomez.
Dan Mullan/Getty Images
Marcos Ureña runs onto the pitch during Costa Rica's opening match against Serbia on June 17. Serbia won 1-0.
Marcos Ureña runs onto the pitch during Costa Rica's opening match against Serbia on June 17. Serbia won 1-0.
Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images Europe/Getty Images
Croatian players celebrate after Luka Modric scored the second goal of their 2-0 win against Nigeria on June 16.
Croatian players celebrate after Luka Modric scored the second goal of their 2-0 win against Nigeria on June 16.
Armando Babani/EPA
Nigerian captain John Obi Mikel runs with the ball during the Croatia match.
Nigerian captain John Obi Mikel runs with the ball during the Croatia match.
Alex Livesey/Getty Images
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.
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.
Mikhail Japaridze/TASS/Getty Images
Peru's Luis Advincula, left, and Denmark's Martin Braithwaite fight for the ball.
Peru's Luis Advincula, left, and Denmark's Martin Braithwaite fight for the ball.
Erik S. Lesser/EPA
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.
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.
Mladen Antonov/AFP/Getty Images
Messi and Iceland's Hordur Magnusson struggle for the ball.
Messi and Iceland's Hordur Magnusson struggle for the ball.
Anton Denisov/Sputnik/AP
Fans of France share a kiss before the team's opening match with Australia on June 16.
Fans of France share a kiss before the team's opening match with Australia on June 16.
Franck Fife/AFP/Getty Images
French midfielder Paul Pogba keeps his eye on the ball against Australia. His shot deflected off an Australian for the match-winning goal.
French midfielder Paul Pogba keeps his eye on the ball against Australia. His shot deflected off an Australian for the match-winning goal.
Andreas Gebert/DPA/Picture-Alliance/AP
Portugal star Cristiano Ronaldo celebrates his first-half penalty against Spain on June 15. He added two more goals in the 3-3 draw.
Portugal star Cristiano Ronaldo celebrates his first-half penalty against Spain on June 15. He added two more goals in the 3-3 draw.
Nelson Almeida/AFP/Getty Images
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.
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.
Simon Hofmann/FIFA/Getty Images
Fernando Hierro was making his debut as Spain's manager. The former captain took over when Spain fired Julen Lopetegui just before the tournament.
Fernando Hierro was making his debut as Spain's manager. The former captain took over when Spain fired Julen Lopetegui just before the tournament.
Stuart Franklin/FIFA/Getty Images
Portuguese defender Raphael Guerreiro controls the ball in the match against Spain.
Portuguese defender Raphael Guerreiro controls the ball in the match against Spain.
Adrian Dennis/AFP/Getty Images
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.
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.
Richard Heathcote/Getty Images
Iran's Alireza Jahanbakhsh grimaces in pain in front of Morocco's Romain Saiss.
Iran's Alireza Jahanbakhsh grimaces in pain in front of Morocco's Romain Saiss.
Themba Hadebe/AP
Uruguay's Luis Suarez, left, and Egypt's Sam Morsy battle for the ball on June 15. Uruguay won 1-0.
Uruguay's Luis Suarez, left, and Egypt's Sam Morsy battle for the ball on June 15. Uruguay won 1-0.
Ryan Pierse/Getty Images
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.
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.
Dan Mullan/Getty Images
Egyptian midfielder Abdallah Said heads the ball during the match against Uruguay.
Egyptian midfielder Abdallah Said heads the ball during the match against Uruguay.
Donat Sorokin/TASS via Getty Images
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.
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.
Ryan Pierse/Getty Images
Fans watching from Yekaterinburg, Russia, celebrate Russia's first goal.
Fans watching from Yekaterinburg, Russia, celebrate Russia's first goal.
Vadim Ghirda/AP
The ball flies past Saudi Arabian goalkeeper Abdullah Al-Mayouf for Russia's fourth goal.
The ball flies past Saudi Arabian goalkeeper Abdullah Al-Mayouf for Russia's fourth goal.
Pavel Golovkin/AP
A fan wears body paint in Russia's colors before the opening match.
A fan wears body paint in Russia's colors before the opening match.
Rebecca Blackwell/AP
Russian President Vladimir Putin speaks to the crowd before kickoff at the Luzhniki Stadium.
Russian President Vladimir Putin speaks to the crowd before kickoff at the Luzhniki Stadium.
Pavel Golovkin/AP
Performers take part in the tournament's opening ceremony.
Performers take part in the tournament's opening ceremony.
Darko Bandic/AP
British pop star Robbie Williams headlined the opening ceremony.
British pop star Robbie Williams headlined the opening ceremony.
Hassan Ammar/AP
Russian soprano Aida Garifullina sings during the opening ceremony.
Russian soprano Aida Garifullina sings during the opening ceremony.
Victor Caivano/AP
The best photos of the 2018 World Cup
CNN  — 

Growing up, most kids dream of scoring for their country in a World Cup final. Mario Mandzukic did just that, except he also scored an own goal.

Mandzukic’s gaffe set France on the path to a 4-2 win over Croatia in Sunday’s showpiece.

With the match not even 20 minutes old, Antoine Griezmann stood menacingly over a free-kick 35 yards from goal.

He delivered a delicious, teasing cross into the box and Mandzukic leaped highest in the crowded area to meet it first.

Unfortunately for him, the Juventus striker could only flick the ball towards his own goal and into the top corner past the flailing arm of Danijel Subasic.

In doing so Mandzukic became the first man in history to score an own goal in a World Cup final.

Mandzukic later netted Croatia’s second goal – to make the score 4-2 – and created another moment of history to become the first player to score both a goal and an own goal in a World Cup final.

Dutchman Ernie Brandts is the only other player to have done this in a World Cup tournament, netting at both ends against Italy in 1978.

Remember that one for your next football quiz.

READ: France crowned world champion after 4-2 win over Croatia

READ: Belgium records best World Cup finish with victory over England

Mario Mandzukic's own goal opened the scoring.
Mario Mandzukic's own goal opened the scoring.
Catherine Ivill/Getty Images Europe/Getty Images

VARcical?

After stealing the limelight for much of the group stage, the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) has been relatively quiet during the knockout phase in Russia.

But VAR wasn’t going to slink out of this World Cup without a bang and it returned to have one last – and crucial – say in the final.

Ivan Perisic’s stunning strike had just canceled out that Mandzukic own goal, but the ball then hit the Inter Milan star’s hand after corner.