Giroud: It's coming home

France's goalkeeper Hugo Lloris (right) holds the World Cup trophy as he stands next to France's forward Olivier Giroud (left) during an official reception at the Elysee Presidential Palace on July 16, 2018 in Paris after French players won the Russia 2018 World Cup final match. PHOTO | LUDOVIC MARIN |

What you need to know:

  • Giroud will shortly return to training with club side Chelsea, who have just appointed Maurizio Sarri to replace Antonio Conte.

Olivier Giroud says he lived a childhood dream after winning the World Cup with France.

Les Bleus triumphed with a 4-2 win over Croatia in Sunday's decider as an own goal by Mario Mandzukic and strikes from Antoine Griezmann, Paul Pogba and Kylian Mbappe drove France to a second World Cup crown and first since 1998.

The 31-year-old striker ended the tournament goalless and without a shot on target in seven appearances in Russia, but Giroud silenced his critics by lifting the trophy in Moscow.

"It's a great feeling – I mean, it's coming home! I had to say that," Giroud joked to English reporters.

"Honestly it's a dream come true, a childhood dream. I am very proud for all the people who supported us, and myself.

"It has been sometimes difficult you know but it is a privilege for me to be part of this team. We have been very solid, very strong all the way, until the end. And I think it's well deserved."

Giroud will shortly return to training with club side Chelsea, who have just appointed Maurizio Sarri to replace Antonio Conte.