France reach final as the Red Devils head home

   

Umtiti celebrates his goal against Belgium.

   Barcelona center-back Samuel Umtiti became the latest French hero as his 52ⁿᵈ minute header rocketed France into the World Cup 2018 Final, while Belgium's Golden Generation failed to surprise. France dominated the match, even though having 36% possession of the ball. But it's what you DO with the ball that counts, and France managed to get 19 shots, as compared to Belgium's 9.

       From the start of the match, Belgium controlled the ball more and had a few shots on goal, Hazard's long shot deflected away by Varane at 19' and Alderweireld denied by captain Lloris at 21'. Mbappe's quick pass to Pavard would have resulted in a goal, had it not been the outstretched right leg of Courtois. At half time, 0-0 remained on the scoreboard and both managers looked to change tactics.

       With the start of the second half, France pressed higher and Olivier Giroud's 51ˢᵗ minute shot at goal, deflected by Kompany, resulted in a corner, taken by Griezmann. Umtiti jumped for glory as he headed home a brilliant header while Fellaini, who was with the latter, was grief struck (see picture). France led the match 1-0. 5 minutes later, a series of vigorous passes by Hernandez, Matuidi and Mbappe almost led to another goal as Giroud snuck in behind the Belgium defense but was denied. Belgium's last offence at 81' on the clock had Lukaku find Hazard, who had the ball kicked away by Varane. The ball went to Axel Witsel who tried his luck at long range and almost netted a goal but the French captain blocked the shot. At the sound of the whistle, French fans bellowed at their top while brave Belgium were knocked out.