Matthaus questions idea of French dynasty

France does not have the style or quality to dominate international football despite its World Cup win, says Lothar Matthaus.

Published : Jul 16, 2018 18:12 IST

World Cup winner Lothar Matthaus does not believe that a French era of dominance is near despite Les Bleus lifting a second world crown on Sunday.

France beat Croatia 4-2 in Moscow to add 2018 success to its 1998 triumph, while banishing the memories of defeat to Portugal in the European Championship final two years ago.

Nineteen-year-old Kylian Mbappe was named the tournament's best young player, while 15 of the 23-man squad are 25 and younger giving France the second youngest squad in the tournament.

Many have suggested France can dominate world football in years to come but, writing in Bild, Matthaus disagreed.

He wrote: ''I do not believe that the French will establish an era.

''The team did not adopt any style or convince with fascinating football.

"They did not push their opponents to the edge.''

Matthaus' criticism is nothing new for Didier Deschamps' side, which was criticised by some for a perceived lack of adventure.

Belgium goalkeeper Thibault Courtois accused it of playing "anti-football" during the semifinal, while Croatia's Dejan Lovren said it "did not play football" in Sunday's showpiece.

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