Croatia vs. France: Nations League Quarterfinal Showdown Awaits

SPLIT, Croatia – In a highly anticipated UEFA Nations League quarterfinal match, Croatia will face off against France at the Stadion Poljud on March 20, 2025, with kickoff scheduled for 7:45 PM UK time.

This clash represents a critical moment for both teams striving for a place in the semifinals of the tournament. Historically, France holds a significant advantage in their encounters, winning six of the last ten matches against Croatia. However, Croatia secured a notable victory in their previous Nations League meeting, triumphing 1-0. The backdrop of their rich rivalry heightened the stakes, especially considering France’s iconic 4-2 victory over Croatia in the 2018 FIFA World Cup final.

France enters this tournament with notable form, featuring star players such as Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé. Dembélé, in particular, shines with extraordinary performances this season, leading European leagues with 22 goals in 2025 while contributing six goals for his national team from 53 appearances. Conversely, Croatia’s captain Luka Modric is expected to play a pivotal role in coordinating the midfield for his team.

On the injury front, Croatia will compete without midfielder Luka Sucic, sidelined due to injury, while France’s Marcus Thuram will also miss the match after sustaining an ankle injury during training. As a result, both teams will need to adjust their strategies, yet remain confident in their robust lineups featuring experienced players.

Predicted lineups show Croatia opting for a 4-3-2-1 formation, with Dominik Livakovic in goal protected by a defensive line consisting of Juranovic, Caleta-Car, Sutalo, and Gvardiol. The midfield trio of Kovacic, Modric, and Pasalic is expected to link play effectively, with the attacking front featuring Perisic, Baturina, and Kramaric.

In contrast, France is anticipated to deploy a 4-2-3-1 formation, showcasing Maignan in goal and a defensive quartet of Kounde, Konate, Saliba, and Hernandez. Midfield stability will primarily come from Tchouameni and Rabiot, while the front line shines with talent, as Dembele, Olise, Mbappe, and Kolo Muani represent a formidable offensive threat.

As the match approaches, discussions circulate around coach Didier Deschamps and how he will strategically deploy Dembélé, be it as a traditional winger or in a role designed to penetrate opposing defenses, similar to his exciting performances with Paris Saint-Germain this season. With Croatia needing to counter France’s attacking momentum, the battle in midfield could become pivotal, particularly allowing players such as Modric and Kovacic to dictate the game’s pace.

Fans eagerly await this electrifying encounter, filled with anticipation over tactical strategies and potential standout performances. The significance of this match cannot be understated—as both teams strive for a cherished semifinal spot in the UEFA Nations League while aiming to bolster their legacies on the international stage.