Croatian star's salty dig at France

Another World Cup footballer has criticised France for their style of play during the tournament, despite Les Bleus being crowned champions.

Croatia defender Dejan Lovren was scathing of the World Cup winners following his side’s 4-2 defeat in the final, saying they didn’t play the game.

“They didn’t play football, they waited for their chances and they scored,” he said.

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“I think we were better. They did it another way. They had their own tactic and you need to respect that.

“They played the tournament like that, every game, but when you look at all the countries behind us, we’re second.”

The Liverpool player joined Belgian star Thibaut Courtois in blasting France’s tactics, who was also unimpressed by their approach to football.

“It’s just an anti-football team,” Courtois told Sporza.

“Their striker plays 30 metres from his own goal.

“France heads a corner and does nothing more than defend.”

Croatia found themselves 2-1 down at half-time despite having dominated possession and conceded only one shot on target, with a Mario Mandzukic own goal and a contentious penalty putting France ahead.

Second-half strikes from Paul Pogba and Kylian Mbappe settled the game, despite a late effort from Mandzukic, who capitalised on a mistake from goalkeeper Hugo Lloris to make it 4-2.

Lovren was unable to hide his frustrations when asked about France’s approach, whilst also praising his Croatian teammates.

“I’m disappointed because we lost the game, we played much, much better football than them,” he said.

“But on the other hand I’m proud of this team and what we have achieved.”

Ivan Perisic conceded the first-half penalty after referee Nestor Pitana penalised him for handball following a VAR review.

Lovren felt the decision was harsh but was hugely proud of the way Croatia tried to fight back in what was their first World Cup final.

“I was sure he would not give the pen,” said the Liverpool centre-back.

“From my point of view, he (Perisic) could not react.

“It was a critical moment, we came back at 1-1, and then this penalty and then 3-1, 4-1, but event then we didn’t stop playing football, we still believed, we gave everything, and this is why people are proud now in Croatia.”

with Omnisport.