The finals of the FIFA World Cup are set. Croatia scored during extra time to beat England 2-1. Croatia will face France on Sunday for the championship. Even before the teams took to the field Wednesday, the fans were ready to cheer.

CGTN’s Dan Williams filed this report from Moscow. 

Supporters on both sides arrived at Moscow’s Luzhniki Stadium confident of victory. At stake, a place in the World Cup Final. At the start, England fans were sure they would be the ones singing at the final whistle.

Croatia last appeared in a World Cup semifinal in 1998. Their supporters were hopeful of going one better this time round. Some fans were concerned fatigue would be a factor, with Croatia already having survived penalty kick shootouts in the two knockout games.

Thousands crammed in to the FIFA fan park to watch the drama unfold. Although England took an early lead, Croatia hit back to level in the second half. Then in extra time, in the 109th minute, there was the kick seen around the world. Croatia was moving on to the finals.

It may have been heartbreak for England, but for Croatia, the dream continues. The team can look forward to a return to the Luzhniki Stadium and a World Cup final against France on Sunday.

Jamil Chade discusses World Cup wins and losses

CGTN’s Mike Walter spoke with Jamil Chade about the World Cup games in Russia. Chade is a sports journalist following the games in Moscow and author of “Politics, Bribes & Football.”