World Cup 2018 Team of the Tournament: Luka Modric leads the way even though France claimed victory in Moscow
opinion 
The World Cup is finally over after an enthralling few weeks in Russia which has seen some twists and turns that nobody could have predicted beforehand.
From Mexicos unlikely victory over reigning champions Germany, to Croatias unbelievable route to the final, its been a truly incredibly World Cup capped off by deserved victory for France in Sundays final.
But now that the dust has settled, whos made the team of the tournament?
Jordan Pickford – ENGLAND – GK
Despite stiff competition from Hugo Lloris and Danijel Subasic for the the No. 1 jersey, Pickford gets the nod due to his ability to rise to the occasion despite inexperience at this level. The 24-year-old got better throughout the tournament and his penalty save against Colombia will long live in the memory of many England fans.
Kieran Trippier – ENGLAND – RB
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His outrageous free-kick against Croatia in the World Cup semi-final was just the cherry on the cake for the tournament as Trippier enjoyed a sublime World Cup. His reputation took a huge boost in Russia thanks to the volume of chances he created and it wouldnt be a surprise to see some even bigger clubs sniffing around for his services this summer
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Diego Godin – URUGUAY – CB
The Atletico Madrid defender enjoyed an exceptional tournament at the back for Uruguay. He was consistent with his high-level performances throughout and played a pivotal role in Uruguay reaching the quarter-finals.
Raphael Varane – FRANCE – CB
An absolute steel wall at the heart of the defence for Les Bleus alongside Samuel Umtiti, claiming four clean sheets and also the vital opening goal in Frances quarter-final clash against Uruguay.
Benjamin Pavard – FRANCE – LB
This time last year, Pavard was playing in the second division of Germany football for Stuttgart and hadnt even made his France debut. Now, hes made the French right-back spot his own and volleyed in a sublime volley in a World Cup knockout round to help eliminate heavyweights Argentina. In the absence of any standout left-backs, Pavard was too good to leave out.
Luka Modric – CROATIA – CM
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To put it simply, Croatia would not have been anywhere near the final if it wasnt for Modric. He went into the tournament as one of the best midfielders in the world, and he now leaves it as one of the best midfielders in history. Rightly awarded the Golden Ball for an excellent campaign.
NGolo Kante – FRANCE – CM
He may not have been spectacular or flashy, but Kante has been exceptional from the very first game against Australia and would improve any team. His work rate is phenomenal even after long club campaign for Chelsea and his ability to close snuff out any attacking danger before it becomes a real goal threat is a rare trait that few players have.
Eden Hazard – BELGIUM – CAM
After a somewhat underwhelming season in club football for Chelsea, Hazard really stepped up a notch for his country on the international stage. He leaves the tournament with two assists and three goals to his name, and even that impressive haul doesnt reflect his brilliant showing in Russia.
Romelu Lukaku – BELGIUM – ST
It wasnt just Lukakus four goals that earnt him a spot in the side, but just his all-round general play. His brick-like strength on the ball and ability to wreak havoc amongst defences has been a joy to watch over the last few weeks.
Harry Kane – ENGLAND – ST
Despite a subdued performance in the semifinal against Croatia, Kane enjoyed a brilliant World Cup and effectively wrapped up the Golden Boot in just the opening two games. His hat-trick against Panama will be remembered for years to come while his last-minute winner against Tunisia sent English fans into footballing delight for a brief moment.
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Kylian Mbappe – FRANCE – ST
Its still difficult to believe Mbappe is just 19 years old. In a French team which is flooded with talent, he was the one who stood out and his performance against Argentina in the round-of-16 clash was just more proof of the abundance of talent he possesses. He capped a fine tournament with a goal in the final and will be around for a long time yet.
Substitutes
Danijel Subasic – CROATIA – GK – Penalty saving expert and denied Kane his seventh goal from close range.
Sime Vrsaljko – CROATIA – RB – Only isnt in the starting XI because Trippier was exceptional.
Andreas Granqvist – SWEDEN – CB – Heart of Swedens defence with two goals and three clean sheets.
Denis Cheryshev – RUSSIA – LM – Best performer in an over-acheiving Russian side.
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Paul Pogba – FRANCE – CM – Gave a fine display in the final, showing creativity and discipline, to cap an excellent month.
Philippe Coutinho – BRAZIL – CAM – Brazils best player by a country mile and scored a sensational goal.
Antoine Griezmann – FRANCE – ST – Really took his game up a notch in the knockout stages.
MORE: When does the Premier League start and what are the opening day fixtures?
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