So it's youthful France vs Croatia's 'golden generation'

England were generally toothless in general play throughout the tournament. Their strength was set pieces where they had a phenomenal conversion rate. Best by far of all the teams. I'm not surprised they scored from a free kick and had other good chances from corners and free kicks. Croatia were far better in possession than England all game. Apart from that England had great speed which caused the Croats problems. An advantage they'd not have against France. I give them lots of credit because nobody expected anything from them. But they are a B grade team at their peak. They can't use the ball and create like the best teams can, but this is still a very young team. But France would have torn them to pieces. Way too fast, too creative, tall, strong and can score from anywhere. Croatia are going to have a hard game. Hopefully their striker is fit for the final. 

It was a shame, but that's life. France had been dominated in most of their games. The saving grace is their attack. They are by far the best finishers in the world, collectively and individually.  Had Croatia had that ability to finish opportunities, France would have been 4 goals down at halftime. Those first two French goals did turn the game in France's favour, but the last two were great touches. Lots of space though, as you say because Croatia had to open up. I don't have as much of a problem with the handball, but Griezmann diving was disgraceful. Even more so that he was awarded a free kick (he dived a few times). This world cup was the best for years, as far a refs not appeasing divers is concerned, but the game still has a long way to go. Refs make very poor calls on obvious dives too much and are too hesitant to act when there is genuine foul. Simply making contact doesn't constitute a foul . It ruins the game completely.