IMO, the reason this World Cup can be argued to be the best ever is VAR. There is a powerfully positive sense that the games are being fairly played and reffed. The results being higher scoring due to calls being made by referees away from the action soberly assessing that which the referee on the field has difficulty calling due to the pressure of fans and players. The game is better both microscopically and macroscopically.
In my opinion it is better because Italy did not qualify, whose absence can also lead to higher scoring.
Hmm....despite their reputation, I am skeptical that the data would actually show that Italy games are low scoring.
After a relatively entertaining championship...Fox will treat us to....Seattle at Atlanta? I fear for the Sounders...(and the viewing public too).
I've so enjoyed watching Modric this tournament. I've missed his tenacity and brilliance since he left Spurs. What a player.
Congratulations to both teams. France deserved this win, and they held up to the pressure of being one of the pre-tournament favorites. Courageous performance by Croatia. I hope they can maintain such a high standard of soccer despite their problems at home and with their national FA.
Since we drew with France last month, this makes us co-World Champions. Let's add the half star to the badge!