France face a huge challenge to turn around their UEFA Nations League quarter-final against Croatia this evening.
Dider Deschamps’ side were beaten in the first leg last week and must overturn a 2-0 deficit to reach this summer’s finals. Ante Budimir and Ivan Perisic scored first-half goals in Split as Croatia took control of the tie on Thursday night.
France had lost just one of their previous 10 encounters with Croatia but have now been beaten in successive games by The Chequered Ones.
Ivan Rakitic and Jules Koundé together after Croatia vs. France 🔥
Barcelona and Sevilla heritage ❤️
(via @ivanrakitic) pic.twitter.com/thus9Hz9Zd
— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) March 21, 2025
Les Bleus lifted the Nations League in 2021 and are aiming to become the first European nation to win the title twice.
France vs Croatia – Predicted lineup and team news
France team news
Didier Deschamps could ring the changes after a disappointing display on Thursday. Ibrahima Konate was withdrawn at half-time after a poor performance and the Liverpool centre-back looks likely to lose his place in the starting side. Bayern Munich defender Dayot Upamecano is in contention to replace him.
Further forward, France failed to breach Croatia’s resistance in Split. Their goalless display could lead to inclusion for the in-form Michael Olise. Adrien Rabiot is a doubt for the clash with a calf complaint.
France predicted lineup
France predicted XI: Maignan; Kounde, Upamecano, Saliba, Hernandez; Camavinga, Tchouameni; Olise, Dembele, Mbappe; Kolo Muani.
When is France vs Croatia?
France host Croatia in the second leg of their UEFA Nations League quarter-final on Sunday 23rd March 2025. Kick-off in France is 19:45 GMT.
What TV channel is France vs Croatia?
You can check out all broadcasters for the UEFA Nations League fixtures here.
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