Reaching World Cup final a ‘miracle’, says Mandzukic

Match-winner Mario Mandzukic says qualifying for the World Cup final was a ‘miracle’ after Croatia defeated England 2-1 in Wednesday’s semi-final at the Luzhniki Stadium.

England 1 Croatia 2 (AET): Five big talking points from Moscow

England will face Belgium in the third-place playoff after succumbing to a 2-1 defeat against Croatia, who will face France in the 2018 World Cup final.

Lloris wants France to learn from Euro 2016 heartbreak

The heartache of Euro 2016 has increased Hugo Lloris’ resolve to lift the World Cup as France captain on Sunday.

Croatia make history to advance to World Cup final

Croatia will face France in the 2018 World Cup final after they came from behind to defeat England 2-1 in their semi-final clash at the Luzhniki Stadium.

The VAR report: Time to red card refs and linesmen

Penalties and shirt-tugging are the biggest failings of VAR, but it’s people who are to blame, writes SIMON LEWIS.

Pogba urges France to avenge Euros defeat

Paul Pogba has urged France not to let an opportunity to win the World Cup pass as Les Bleus booked their place in Sunday’s showpiece with a 1-0 win over Belgium.

Rennais had no respect for me – Erasmus

Former Orlando Pirates striker Kermit Erasmus feels he was pushed out by Stade Rennais after failing to make an impact at the French Ligue 1 outfit.

Deschamps eschews artistry in pursuit of greatest prize

There was a pleasing reassurance to be had in St Petersburg around mid-morning on Tuesday.

Dier wary of ‘world class’ Rakitic and Modric

Eric Dier has praised Croatia duo Ivan Rakitic and Luka Modric, warning that England must contain them to book a first World Cup final spot in 52 years.

Croatia vs England: Young focusing on Three Lions threat

Ashley Young wants England to focus on their own qualities ahead of the World Cup semi-final against Croatia, rather than worry about the threat of Luka Modric.