Sunday is the all-important World Cup final. France will lock horns with Croatia with the aim of winning the title for the second time, while the Vatreni is eyeing their first ever triumph in football's most coveted competition.
Both nations' defense will be key in their highly-anticipated encounter. Raphael Varane and Dejan Lovren will be the two key men in each side's back-four, but who has been superior so far in Russia?
The Liverpool center-back recently stated after the 2-1 win over England in the semi-finals that he is one of the best defenders in the world. Comparing his numbers at the World Cup to those of the Frenchman reveals areas in which the 29-year-old emerges on top.
Lovren has made more tackles (two to Varane's one) and more blocks (seven to Varane's four) up until now. However, there is where the Croat's superiority ends.
The Real Madrid ace has more clearances (34 to Lovren's 29) and has recovered more balls (42 to Lovren's 38). Moreover, the Frenchman is yet to pick up a yellow card, unlike his counterpart.
Additionally, Varane (2) has committed fewer fouls than the Vatreni defender (7). On top of that, the Bleus man has not given away a penalty – the same cannot be said for Dejan.
Regardless, Sunday's game will not be decided by the stats. Both men will face tricky opponents and only a brilliant display will help them win the 2018 World Cup title.
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