Bavarian Football Works predicts the World Cup Final

The World Cup Final is upon us. After 90 minutes (or more), we will have either a first time winner in Croatia or a two time winner in France.

Both teams took long tough roads to get to the final. Croatia had to go through two penalty shootouts against Denmark and host nation Russia before beating England to reach the final. France, meanwhile, was able to hold off a last gasp effort by Argentina before shutting out Uruguay and Belgium to reach their third World Cup final in 20 years.

Seeing as this is the biggest game in all of football, we decided to reveal what we thought the final scores would be.

Jake Fenner: Croatia 2-1 France (a.e.t)

The last three World Cup finals needed at least extra time to decide. Five games in this tournament needed extra time as well. So, to me this is an easy pick. If we see a France that came out exactly as they did against Belgium, I think that would play to Croatia’s advantage. Their wing backs are strong and quick and, despite three straight games over 90 minutes, they will be able to keep up with Dembele and Mbappe. France’s goal will come from a corner kick. I also predict someone from France will be sent off at some point, which has been the case for both finals Les Bleus have played in. This will not be helpful as a Modric set piece in extra time will find Mandzukic’s head and the Vatreni will win their first World Cup. Also, before the tournament started I picked Croatia to go to the semifinals, so here's to the Kockasti, or checkered ones.

John Dillon: Croatia 2-1 France

I think Croatia are the better team and will find a way to get the ball to Mandzukic at least once. They might not score the decisive goal until late in the game, but Luka Modric or Ivan Rakitic will find a way to get the ball up for someone like Ante Rebic or Andrej Kramaric, and they will beat France’s defense. For France, I think Mbappe will either score or assist one goal.

Chuck Smith: Croatia 2-1 France

Everything on paper points to France; from talent to depth to just being fresh, France SHOULD be the pick. Croatia, however, has shown such sheer and utter resilience; while also displaying heart, grit, and fearlessness that I just can’t pick against them. They’ve had a tremendous run and I’d love to see it come to a victorious end. For this pick to work, I’m banking on Luka Modrić, Ivan Rakitić, Mario Mandžukić, Dejan Lovren, and Ante Rebić among others to continue to exert their will on the opposition.

Phillip Quinn: France 2-0 Croatia

I think France will get a goal in the first half, and while Croatia won’t generate a ton of chances, the ones they do get will be fantastic. However, as Croatia pushes for the equalizer in the second half, France will get a second on a counter.

Tom Adams: France 3-1 Croatia

I just think Frances midfield and attack will really open up Croatia, and I think Croatia are a bit nervy when they can’t knock the ball around at their own liking. Russia and Denmark both really stretched them and took them to penalties, but France is a much stronger team and can really hurt them. Mbappe and Griezmann to score.

Ben Erwin: France 3-2 Croatia

I think Croatia will nab an early goal (hopefully from Mandzukic), forcing France to open the game up a little bit. Croatia will put up a valiant effort, but France’s quality and sturdy defense will win out in what will be a surprisingly back and forth affair.

What are your picks for the final? Be sure to leave them in the comments.