Players To Watch In World Cup Final 2018: Getting To Know The Stars For France, Croatia

The FIFA World Cup final gets underway Sunday when France face Croatia at Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow. Both Croatia and France boast elite playmakers, though there is no shortage of stars at other positions.

France, a country with a population of more than 67 million, has plenty to brag about with their national team. The 23-man roster in recent years has had the look of an All-Star team, though some of the lesser-known players have emerged for Les Bleus in Russia.

For a country of just over 4 million, Croatia's national team roster is among the most impressive in the world. While some of the bench players on the roster would probably struggle to make the roster of, say, Brazil or Germany, most Croatian starters could start for any country in the world.

There are many players to watch for in Sunday's final, but a few stand out more than others.

FRANCE

Paul Pogba, Midfielder (Manchester United)

The 25-year-old seems is an enormous ball of energy. Pogba hasn't scored in the World Cup but he has made his presence felt on both sides of the field. While many talk about Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo and Neymar, it's hard to not put Pogba in the conversation as one of the world's best. It's no wonder the versatile central midfielder already has 59 caps.

Benjamin Pavard, Right Back (Stuttgart)

Relatively unknown before the start of the tournament, the 22-year-old has grown in status after some excellent performances since his call-up to the national team in November. His goal against Argentina was one of the best of the World Cup. Don't be surprised if he makes an even bigger splash at Euro 2020.

Kylian Mbappé, Forward (Paris Saint-Germain)

At age 19, Mbappe already has some believing that he is among Europe's best strikers. The former Monaco starlet has scored seven goals in 21 appearances for Les Bleus and many more should be on the way. Mbappe is extremely athletic and has very good technical skills for his age. Word quickly spread of his talents on the Paris streets and many expect him to emerge as one of the best players in the world.

CROATIA

Luka Modric, Central Midfielder (Real Madrid)

It's very hard to not notice the former Tottenham star because he always seems to have the ball and has a great knack for delivering pinpoint passes. He's also excellent at set pieces and will unexpectedly unleash a jaw-dropping goal from distance. Modric, who spent part of his childhood as a refugee during the Balkan War, might be Croatia's all-time greatest player, which says a lot since the country produced the likes of Davor Suker, Zvonimir Boban and Robert Prosinecki.

Šime Vrsaljko, Right Back (Atletico Madrid)

Like Pavard, the world has taken notice of Vrsaljko's skills in Russia. Despite being slowed by injury, he has delivered some quality passes in the tournament and has often looked poised in containing opponents' attack. Inter Milan, Roma and Chelsea are reportedly showing interest in the 26-year-old. How he contains the France attack might be pivotal to Croatia's success.

Mario Mandzukic, Striker (Juventus)

There isn't anything fancy with how this former Bayern Munich star plays. He simply gets the job done by being at the right place and the right time, and usually with a one-touch. The 32-year-old is also good in the air and somehow thrives despite drawing opponents' best marking defender.