For the first time on JoziGist Sports, we have a tie! Our teams of the semi-finals awards deservedly go to France and Argentina
Emilyann Allen once coined the phrase, “All good things come to an end and the pain of some endings isn’t worth the good things.”
Luka Modric appeared to be in excruciating pain after Croatia’s crushing semi-final defeat to Argentina. In what is possibly his last world cup, the midfield maestro was less than impressed with the quality of the officiating in the crucial clash and openly criticized Italian referee Daniele Orsato.
The 2018 finalists bowed out of the prestigious tournament after a controversial penalty decision by the match officials led to yet another goal by the legendary Lionel Messi. On Tuesday night’s semi-final, Messi was simply unplayable as he continued his ruthless habit of splitting defences with mazy runs before laying the ball off to a teammate. Manchester City striker, Julian Alvarez benefited from Messi’s brilliance for one of his two goals on the night. The former River Plate goal machine also scored an absolute stunner that killed every Croats dream of winning the World cup.
Like Zlatko Dalic, Moroccan coach Walid Regragui had to comfort his player’s after Morocco’s fairy-tale run came to an end. Despite a 2-0 loss to France in Wednesday’s semi-finals, The Atlas Lions can hold their heads high. The history-makers went behind after just five minutes and were hit with a sucker punch 11 minutes from time. The score line certainly did not reflect Morocco’s dominance in the match.
Like Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe has been sensational in Qatar. His quick feet inside the box disorientated the solid defensive lines of The Atlas Lions which led to substitute Randal Kolo Muani finishing off the move. As Olivier Giroud won aerial duels, Antoine Griezmann played the role of a play maker, sending beautiful balls to teammates like Mbappe who led breath-taking counterattacks that eventually killed off the game.
As Croatia & Morocco settle for a third place battle, the French begin preparations for a glorious Sunday night final against Argentina at the Iconic Lusail Stadium.
A Fire Cracker of a Final Incoming!