IT'S been a long month for football devotees – but the fun isn't over yet for Justin Stevens and Sylvain Vergos.
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The Croatian and Frenchman respectively have been up at all hours watching their national teams progress through the world's biggest tournament, hearts in mouths.
Thrilling semi-final wins over England and Belgium respectively propelled the teams into the final, to be played at 1am on Monday morning.
While both men are desperate to see their home countries hoist the trophy, they were able to agree on one thing – that the tournament had brought Europe together, for the better.
“I haven't missed one game,” Mr Stevens said.
“I was on the edge of my seat in the semi-final, I thought we'd lost when England scored first, but to get up in extra time like that was awesome.
“It's really good, they've lost all confidence in the parliament back home and there's a lot of stuff going on, so the football is huge.”
Mr Vergos, who has gotten up as early as 4am to watch matches and set up a bed in his living room, said something about the World Cup brought everyone together.
“There's a lot of hope for us, that we can win another World Cup 20 years after our first one,” he said.
“I'm pleased we're facing Croatia, I think it'll be a great game.
“The atmosphere across Europe is a bit sad at the moment, this will be a good thing that brings everyone together.
“This has been something for everyone to look forward to.”
As for the match itself?
Unsurprisingly opinions were divided.
“Oh we'll win,” Mr Stevens said.
“I think France will score first, we'll equalise, then hopefully we'll get another one early in extra time.
“We're playing for more than just football.”
Mr Vergos’ opinion differed, although he tipped the match would have a similar flow to it.
“Well France is going to win, obviously,” he said.
“But I agree with Justin, I think we might get the first goal, but not very early, we always sit back and observe to start.
“It'll be very tight, a good game to watch – the whole world will be watching.”