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Russia World Cup 2018: Semi-finalists combined XI

By Thomas Bradley Alderman

SAINT PETERSBURG, RUSSIA - JULY 10: Raphael Varane of France is challenged by Eden Hazard of Belgium during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Semi Final match between Belgium and France at Saint Petersburg Stadium on July 10, 2018 in Saint Petersburg, Russia. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)
SAINT PETERSBURG, RUSSIA - JULY 10: Raphael Varane of France is challenged by Eden Hazard of Belgium during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Semi Final match between Belgium and France at Saint Petersburg Stadium on July 10, 2018 in Saint Petersburg, Russia. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images) /
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SAINT PETERSBURG, RUSSIA – JULY 10: Kylian Mbappe of France looks on during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Semi Final match between Belgium and France at Saint Petersburg Stadium on July 10, 2018 in Saint Petersburg, Russia. (Photo by Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images)
SAINT PETERSBURG, RUSSIA – JULY 10: Kylian Mbappe of France looks on during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Semi Final match between Belgium and France at Saint Petersburg Stadium on July 10, 2018 in Saint Petersburg, Russia. (Photo by Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images) /

The French team meet the Croatians in the World Cup final on Sunday. But which players from the finalists, along with Belgium and England, make a phenomenal combined XI?

Selecting a dream team from the semi-finalists is slightly different from choosing the best performers. So, we are discussing the best side theoretically. First of all, I opted for a 3-4-3 formation. This gives balance and ample attacking options.

My ideal manager is Gareth Southgate: the boss with enduring pragmatism, as well as a desire to succeed. Without further ado, let us examine the star lineup:

Goalkeeper

Jordan Pickford

As high profiles go, Jordan Pickford had a lesser one – that was pre-tournament. Everton’s No.1 stopper became the most lauded goalkeeper at the World Cup following stunning saves and a Peter Schmeichel-like command of his area and protectors.

Saving the penultimate penalty versus Colombia confirmed his status as the nation’s best – at least. A star is born.

There are alternatives to Pickford as a great ‘keeper choice. Thibaut Courtois or Hugo Lloris would be many people’s picks.

However, I feel the Englishman earned his place through dependency and electrifying, energizing displays. Watch out for his inclusion in FIFA’s Team of the Tournament and a Golden Glove nomination.

Telegraph Sport says he is keen to claim his award versus rival Thibaut Courtois in the third-place play-off.

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