The World Cup reaches its climax on Sunday with Argentina facing defending champions France in a mouth-watering finale – but what have been the on-field highlights of the tournament in Qatar? Here, the Sky Sports writers pick out their standout moments from the past four weeks…
Best player of the World Cup
Adam Bate: It is Lionel Messi (Argentina). Nobody has scored more goals and nobody has provided more assists. In willing his team to the final, he has also shown an edge to his game that has not always been evident. At 35, he is past his peak. He is still better than everyone else.
Sam Blitz: Antoine Griezmann (France). Three months ago, the France forward was in the midst of a ‘substitution scandal’ with Atletico Madrid and looked shot of confidence. While he’s been starring in a deeper role at the tournament, his attacking output has not diminished. The player with the most chances created in the tournament and some crucial interventions from within his own penalty box, France would not be in the final without him.
Nick Wright: Messi. It has to be. Five goals, three assists and so much more. That pass against Holland. That run against Croatia. Moments to savour from the world’s best.
