Best moments of FIFA WC 2018 featuring Ronaldo’s hat-trick

The 2018 World Cup was full of drama as France emerged victorious as they went the entire tournament unbeaten to clinch their second World title. 

From Ronaldo’s hat trick against Spain to Germany’s exit in the group stage, the World Cup had no shortage of big moments. So with the latest edition of the FIFA World Cup around the corner, here is a look at five iconic moments from the FIFA World Cup 2018.

Ronaldo’s moment of magic

The five-time Champions League winner came to the party in a big way, hitting a hat-trick, dragging Portugal to an astonishing 3-3 draw in Sochi and stamping his authority on the World Cup in Ronaldo style. Spain were seemingly heading towards victory after coming from behind twice to lead 3-2 with just minutes remaining, but Ronaldo, who became the first player to score in eight consecutive major tournaments, denied them right at the death with a late free-kick that got the world off their seats. 

Germany facing elimination in the group stage

Germany walked into the tournament as defending World Champions and walked out of the tournament with empty hands from the group stage. With the game locked at 0-0 and Germany needing a win to qualify, Young-Gwon Kim bundled home from a corner and although the goal was initially ruled out for offside, a VAR review showed the ball coming off the foot of Kroos and the decision was reversed. Five minutes later, goalkeeper Manuel Neuer comically sauntered upfield and was dispossessed before Heung-Min Son fired into an open net.

Belgium break Japanese hearts

After an ineffective first half when Belgium's golden generation lacked sparkle in the final third and found their best players restricted by Japan's intensity, Roberto Martinez's team were soon 2-0 down after a swift combo of ruthless attacks by the Japanese. It seemed yet another World Cup upset was on the cards.

There were eight Japanese players in Belgium's final third as Thibaut Courtois launched the 94th-minute counter-attack by rolling the ball out to Kevin De Bruyne. The Manchester City midfielder led the charge before Thomas Meunier's cross was beautifully dummied by Romelu Lukaku and Nacer Chadli slotted in the winner.

Cover Credits: Goal.com