World Cup 2018

Russia on right track after hosting success

But more work is needed to ensure they continue reaping the benefits down the line

Left: Young fans watching a friendly amateur match between France and Croatia at the Red Square in Moscow as football fever swept across the nation during the World Cup. Below: The hosts defied expectations and knocked Spain out in a penalty shoot-ou
Young fans watching a friendly amateur match between France and Croatia at the Red Square in Moscow as football fever swept across the nation during the World Cup. PHOTOS: AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE, REUTERS
Left: Young fans watching a friendly amateur match between France and Croatia at the Red Square in Moscow as football fever swept across the nation during the World Cup. Below: The hosts defied expectations and knocked Spain out in a penalty shoot-ou
The hosts defied expectations and knocked Spain out in a penalty shoot-out in the last 16. But they lost to Croatia in the last eight. PHOTOS: AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE, REUTERS
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After 32 days of thrilling action, 64 matches, 169 goals and many more standout moments and memories, favourites France prevailed to win their second world title on Sunday.

But, through Croatia's fairy-tale run to the final and Russia's equally improbable successful hosting of this World Cup, a captivated global audience has learnt about football's power, potential and possibilities.

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on July 17, 2018, with the headline Russia on right track after hosting success. Subscribe