ARE WE LIKELY TO SEE AN ARGENTINA VS FRANCE FINAL?

By Rashmi Goel

The World Cup is now down to the final four teams. There is only one game left for Croatia, Argentina, Morocco, and France to reach the final of the tournament. Several twists and turns have already been experienced during the World Cup. Could there be any more to come? As we approach the final week of the World Cup in Qatar, we examine how the odds are shaping up. There is no denying that Brazil and England, who were both considered to have a great chance of winning the tournament this winter, are out of the race.

France, who knocked out the Three Lions, are now the favorites to go all the way to winning the trophy. They face Morocco in the semi-finals, but as they have consistently delivered over the course of the tournament, the Atlas Lions are not to be underestimated. After Italy and Brazil last won consecutive World Cups in 1962, France can follow their example by winning consecutive World Cups.

In second place is Argentina, which is led by the magnificent Lionel Messi. The way the quarter-finals have unfolded, it appears Messi's lifelong dream could be coming true and he might just achieve the fairytale ending to his international career. Third on the list is knockout connoisseurs Croatia. Croatia has made great strides in the last five years under the direction of Zlatko Dalic, and he has his team on the verge of reaching back-to-back World Cup finals. It is possible we may get to see a repeat of the final in 2018 if Croatia makes it to the final and meet France. In each of their past five World Cup knockout matches, they won on penalties or after extra time. If they face Argentina, you will have a difficult time betting against their mental strength for the occasion. The possibility of Morocco going all the way is remote, but it cannot be ruled out. Their outstanding performance in becoming the first African semi-finalists at the World Cup has made them a difficult opponent to defeat.

With five goals already to his name, Kylian Mbappe remains the favorite for this particular golden boot award. He is increasingly likely to receive the award this year. It is possible that things may change. Argentina's Messi is just one goal behind him in this tournament, and he has been a magical force. As an attacking maestro, he has been in top form, providing both goals and assists, and is currently in the running for the Golden Boot. Giroud, Mbappe's teammate and the all-time leading goal scorer for Les Bleus, is also on the list.

There is no doubt that Argentina/France will be the most anticipated final due to the wealth of talent on display. Throughout the tournament, France has appeared sharp and Argentina has steadily improved after their opening-round defeat against Saudi Arabia. It has been Messi's inspiration that has allowed his team to get to a position where they could reach their first final since 2014, although they will have to overcome Croatia first.