Croatia delivered an impressive performance, defeating France 2-0 in the UEFA Nations League quarter-final, bringing them closer to securing a spot in the semi-finals.
Right from the 5th minute, Croatia was awarded a penalty after Ibrahima Konate handled the ball in the box. Referee Espen Eskas confirmed the decision after consulting VAR. However, Andrej Kramaric failed to capitalize on the opportunity, as his shot lacked the power to beat Mike Maignan.
Despite the missed penalty, Croatia maintained pressure on the French goal. In the 26th minute, the checkerboard team broke the deadlock. Ivan Perisic provided a perfect assist for Ante Budimir, who headed the ball accurately into the bottom right corner, giving Croatia a 1-0 lead.
France attempted to push higher to find an equalizer but faced a solid Croatian defense alongside the outstanding performance of goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic. In the first half, Josko Gvardiol also had a chance to extend the lead with a dangerous shot, but Maignan was quick to make the save.
Just before halftime, Croatia landed a decisive blow with a second goal. Ivan Perisic once again made his mark, striking confidently inside the box, sending the ball into the bottom left corner, and doubling the lead to 2-0.
In the second half, coach Didier Deschamps made several changes to improve France’s performance. However, the French team continued to struggle against Croatia’s disciplined and solid defense.
In the 60th minute, Dembele had a chance to shorten the deficit after receiving a clever through ball from Mbappe, but his shot could not beat Livakovic. By the 81st minute, Mbappe created a dangerous chance with a threatening shot, but once again, Croatia’s goalkeeper shone with a spectacular save.
In the final minutes of the game, despite having a few opportunities from set pieces, France could not find a consolation goal. Croatia preserved their 2-0 victory and placed one foot into the UEFA Nations League semi-finals.
This result gives coach Zlatko Dalic’s team a strong chance of progressing further in the tournament. Meanwhile, France will face many questions regarding their form after losing a match they were expected to perform better in.
