The UEFA Nations League is back with an exciting quarter-final clash as Croatia takes on reigning world champions France at the iconic Stade de France this Sunday. With both teams boasting immense quality and a point to prove, this high-stakes encounter promises to be a thrilling battle between two European football powerhouses.
Match Preview
Croatia, known for their resilience and tactical discipline, secured a crucial 2-0 victory in the first leg, putting themselves in a favorable position ahead of the return fixture. Zlatko Dalic’s men finished second in Group 1 of the UEFA Nations League standings and have demonstrated their ability to compete at the highest level. With experienced stalwarts like Luka Modric and Mateo Kovacic in midfield, Croatia will be determined to pull off another strong performance.
France, on the other hand, topped Group 2 and have been in formidable form throughout the tournament. However, Les Bleus suffered an unexpected setback in the first leg, leaving Didier Deschamps’ side under pressure to turn the tie around at home. With attacking stars such as Kylian Mbappe and Ousmane Dembele leading the charge, France has the firepower to mount a strong comeback.
Head-to-Head Record
France and Croatia have faced each other multiple times, including the famous 2018 FIFA World Cup final, where France triumphed 4-2. Historically, France has enjoyed the upper hand in this fixture, but Croatia’s recent win has added an element of unpredictability to this quarter-final showdown.
Predicted Lineups
France (4-2-3-1)
Goalkeeper: Mike Maignan
Defenders: Jules Kounde, Dayot Upamecano, William Saliba, Theo Hernandez
Midfielders: Aurelien Tchouameni, Eduardo Camavinga
Forwards: Ousmane Dembele, Michael Olise, Kylian Mbappe
Striker: Randal Kolo Muani
Croatia (4-2-3-1)
Goalkeeper: Dominik Livakovic
Defenders: Josip Stanisic, Josip Sutalo, Duje Caleta-Car, Josko Gvardiol
Midfielders: Luka Modric, Mateo Kovacic
Forwards: Ivan Perisic, Martin Baturina, Andrej Kramaric
Striker: Ante Budimir
Prediction: Who Will Win?
France, playing at home, will be highly motivated to overturn their first-leg deficit. While Croatia has already proven they can outplay the French, Deschamps’ men possess the quality and depth to stage a comeback. Expect a high-intensity contest with France pushing forward aggressively, but Croatia’s defensive resilience could make things tricky.
Prediction: France 2-1 Croatia (Aggregate: 2-3) – Croatia advances to the semi-finals.
