Croatia & France fans fill Moscow ahead of World Cup final (VIDEO)

French and Croatian fans have filled the center of Moscow ahead of their teams’ World Cup final at Luzhniki Stadium on Sunday.

Ahead of kick-off, fans were out in force on Red Square and the surrounding areas, with Croatian fans a particularly noticeable presence in their distinctive red and white shirts.

Croatia, with a population of just 4.17 million, is appearing in its first World Cup final, and fans were determined not to be outnumbered in the Russian capital.

READ MORE: World Cup Final: France and Croatia one step away from Russia 2018 glory

They filled Nikolskaya Street  in particular, which has become the unofficial center of fan activity at the World Cup, painting the Moscow town red and white.

Some were seen lifting a mock World Cup trophy, and will hope team captain Luka Modric lifts the real thing in Moscow later in the day.

Croatia reached the final thanks to a 2-1 extra-time semi-final win against England, and some fans took the time to mockingly thank the English for their generosity. 

A number of fans spoke of their pride in their nation reaching the final, and predicted victory for their team against France. 

French fans were fewer in number in the city center, but some took the time to merge with the larger Croatian presence. 

Les Bleus fans began to emerge on the Moscow Metro as both sets of fans made their way to Luzhniki Stadium ahead of the 6pm kick-off at local time.

France are aiming to add to the World Cup title they won on home soil in 1998, while for Croatia it would be a first ever win.