France's 2018 World Cup Squad: A Look Back

The 2018 World Cup in Russia was a tournament to remember for French football fans. Les Bleus, under the guidance of Didier Deschamps, lifted the trophy for the second time in their history, defeating Croatia in a thrilling final. A key ingredient of their success was the talented squad that Deschamps assembled. Let's take a trip down memory lane and revisit the players who were called up to represent France at the 2018 World Cup.

The Goalkeepers

France boasted a solid goalkeeping trio in 2018, led by Hugo Lloris, who was not only the captain but also the undisputed first-choice keeper. Lloris's experience and shot-stopping ability proved crucial throughout the tournament, with his leadership being a calming influence on the team. He played every minute of every game, and his experience was crucial to securing the victory. He was a true leader on and off the pitch.

Hugo Lloris: As the captain and first-choice goalkeeper, Lloris was instrumental in France's triumph. His experience, leadership, and crucial saves throughout the tournament solidified his place as one of the best goalkeepers in the world. Lloris had a stellar tournament, making several key saves, including a penalty stop in the group stage match against Peru. His presence in goal brought a sense of calm and assurance to the entire team. He was also excellent in organizing his defense and communicating effectively with his teammates. His distribution was also on point, launching quick counter-attacks and keeping the opposition on their toes.

Steve Mandanda: The experienced veteran served as a reliable backup to Lloris. While he didn't feature in any matches, his presence in the squad provided valuable support and mentorship. Mandanda has long been a mainstay in French football, and his inclusion in the squad highlighted his continued quality and professionalism. He also served as an important figure in the dressing room, offering advice and support to the younger players. He has always been a fantastic player and teammate.

Alphonse Areola: Rounding out the goalkeeping options was the young and promising Areola. Although he didn't get any playing time, his inclusion signaled his potential for the future. Areola was seen as a player for the future, and his presence in the squad was a valuable learning experience. He would go on to have a successful career, representing top clubs like Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain. His inclusion in the World Cup squad served as a stepping stone in his development.

The Defenders

The French defense was a blend of youth and experience, providing a solid foundation for the team's attacking prowess. The full-backs offered dynamism and width, while the center-backs were strong and commanding in the air. The defense was well-organized and disciplined, making it difficult for opponents to break them down. They were also effective in set-piece situations, both defensively and offensively.

Raphaël Varane: The Real Madrid star was a rock at the heart of the defense. His composure, aerial ability, and tackling skills made him a formidable opponent for any striker. Varane's partnership with Samuel Umtiti was crucial to France's defensive stability. He played every minute of every game except the last group game and was a true leader on the pitch. His experience was invaluable to the team, and he was a key reason why France was so difficult to score against. He is a world-class defender.

Samuel Umtiti: Umtiti formed a strong partnership with Varane in central defense. His physicality and reading of the game complemented Varane's elegance and composure. Despite struggling with injuries leading up to the tournament, Umtiti proved his worth with solid performances. He also scored the winning goal in the semi-final against Belgium. He was a key player in the team's success. He is now retired from professional football.

Benjamin Pavard: Pavard emerged as a surprise star at right-back. His stunning goal against Argentina was one of the highlights of the tournament. Pavard's versatility and defensive solidity made him an invaluable asset to the team. He has proven himself to be a reliable player, and that is something Didier Deschamps values a lot. He continues to be a very important player for the French national team.

Lucas Hernandez: Hernandez provided solidity and versatility at left-back. His tenacity and defensive awareness made him a reliable option. His ability to play both centrally and on the left flank made him a valuable asset to the squad. He played almost every minute of the tournament, and his consistency was crucial to France's success. He is currently playing for Paris Saint-Germain.

Presnel Kimpembe: The young center-back provided cover for Varane and Umtiti. While he didn't feature prominently, his inclusion in the squad showed his potential for the future. Kimpembe is known for his physical strength and tackling ability. He is currently playing for Paris Saint-Germain and is a regular in the national team.

Adil Rami: The experienced defender was a late addition to the squad after an injury to Laurent Koscielny. Although he didn't play any minutes, his experience and leadership were valuable assets in the dressing room. Rami was known for his aerial ability and physical presence. He brought a sense of calm and experience to the squad, which was important during high-pressure situations.

Djibril Sidibé: Sidibé provided another option at right-back. After struggling with injuries leading up to the tournament, he played a limited role. Sidibé is known for his pace and attacking ability. He was a valuable squad player, providing depth and competition for places.

The Midfielders

The French midfield was a powerhouse of creativity, energy, and tactical discipline. Paul Pogba and N'Golo Kanté formed a formidable partnership in the center of the park, while Blaise Matuidi provided energy and experience. The midfield was the engine room of the team, controlling possession and dictating the tempo of games.

Paul Pogba: Pogba was a dominant force in midfield, showcasing his vision, passing range, and physical presence. He scored a crucial goal in the final and was one of France's standout players. His performances in the tournament silenced his critics and cemented his place as one of the best midfielders in the world. He is still playing at a high level for Juventus and is a key player for the French national team.

N'Golo Kanté: Kanté was the unsung hero of the team, providing tireless energy and defensive cover. His ability to win back possession and break up opposition attacks was crucial to France's success. Many fans believe that he should have won the best player of the tournament award. He is still considered one of the best defensive midfielders in the world.

Blaise Matuidi: Matuidi provided energy, experience, and tactical discipline in midfield. His work rate and versatility made him a valuable asset to the team. He played a crucial role in helping the team maintain its shape and structure. His experience was invaluable to the team, and he was a key reason why France was so difficult to break down.

Corentin Tolisso: Tolisso provided a dynamic option in midfield. His energy and attacking instincts made him a valuable asset off the bench. Tolisso is known for his versatility and ability to play in different positions. He is currently playing for Lyon and is a regular in the French national team.

Steven Nzonzi: Nzonzi provided a physical presence in midfield. His height and strength made him effective in aerial duels and defensive situations. Nzonzi was a valuable squad player, providing depth and competition for places. He brought a sense of calm and experience to the squad, which was important during high-pressure situations.

Thomas Lemar: Lemar was a talented winger who could also play in midfield. Although he didn't feature prominently, his inclusion in the squad showed his potential for the future. He is known for his pace, dribbling ability, and crossing ability. He continues to have a fantastic career playing for Atletico Madrid.

The Forwards

The French attack was led by the electrifying Kylian Mbappé, who burst onto the scene with his pace, skill, and finishing ability. Antoine Griezmann provided creativity and goals, while Olivier Giroud offered a physical presence and link-up play. The attack was dynamic and versatile, capable of scoring goals in a variety of ways.

Kylian Mbappé: Mbappé was the breakout star of the tournament, showcasing his incredible pace, skill, and finishing ability. He scored four goals, including one in the final, and was a constant threat to opposition defenses. He won the best young player award and is now considered one of the best players in the world. He is still playing at a high level for Paris Saint-Germain and is a key player for the French national team.

Antoine Griezmann: Griezmann was France's top scorer at the tournament, netting four goals. His creativity, work rate, and clinical finishing made him a vital part of the team. He won the bronze ball award for being the third-best player of the tournament. He has had a fantastic career and is still playing at a high level for Atletico Madrid.

Olivier Giroud: Giroud provided a physical presence and link-up play in attack. Although he didn't score any goals, his hold-up play and ability to bring others into the game were crucial to France's success. He is now France's all-time leading goalscorer and is considered a legend of the game. He is still playing at a high level for AC Milan.

Ousmane Dembélé: Dembélé provided pace and trickery on the wing. Although his playing time was limited, his talent and potential were evident. He is known for his pace, dribbling ability, and crossing ability. He is currently playing for Paris Saint-Germain and is a regular in the French national team.

Nabil Fekir: Fekir provided a creative spark off the bench. His dribbling ability and eye for goal made him a dangerous option in the final third. He is known for his technique and creativity. He is now playing for Real Betis in Spain.

Florian Thauvin: Thauvin was a late addition to the squad after an injury to Dimitri Payet. Although he didn't play any minutes, his inclusion in the squad was a reward for his excellent form for Marseille. He is known for his pace, dribbling ability, and shooting ability.

France's 2018 World Cup squad was a perfect blend of youth and experience, talent and work ethic. Each player played their part in the team's success, contributing to a memorable triumph that will be celebrated for generations to come. From Lloris's leadership in goal to Mbappé's electrifying performances in attack, every player left their mark on the tournament. It was truly a team effort, and that is why they were able to lift the trophy.