Even before the final ball is kicked in glory or anger in the Russia 2018 FIFA World Cup today, the 21st edition of the biggest football tournament is already being hailed among the best of the lot.
France or Croatia will be crowned champions -- against all odds -- after booking their place in the final at the iconic Luzhniki Stadium, the sporting citadel of Russia where it all started on June 14 when the hosts thumped Saudi Arabia 5-0 in the opening match.