Former world champions France are staring at a quarter-final exit in the UEFA Nations League unless they can pull a great comeback against Croatia. These two nations will face off in the return leg of their last eight, with Croatia leading 2-0 from the first leg. After their defeat in Split, we have the preview and two predictions as the two meet in Saint Denis this Sunday.
These two nations have become well-acquainted in the past few years, starting from the 2018 World Cup final. In just those seven years, they’ve faced off six times, with France winning three times and Croatia twice.
However, ahead of this game, Croatia hold a three-match unbeaten run against France. While Croatia are gunning for their first Nations League title, France are chasing their second. There’s still some way before the ultimate winner can be determined as progressing from this tie sets up a match against the Netherlands or Spain.
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 Ibrahima Konate was withdrawn at half-time after a poor performance and the Liverpool centre-back looks likely to lose his place in the starting side.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 XI: Maignan; Kounde, Upamecano, Saliba, Hernandez; Camavinga, Tchouameni; Olise, Dembele, Mbappe; Kolo Muani.
