France mounted an impressive comeback to defeat Croatia on penalties and advance to the Nations League semi-finals. After losing 2-0 in the first leg in Croatia, Didier Deschamps’ side responded with determination at the Stade de France. The hosts dominated the match, scoring twice to level the tie and ultimately securing a dramatic shootout victory.
With a vibrant home crowd behind them, France’s persistence paid off. Bayern Munich winger Michael Olise ignited their hopes with a stunning free-kick in the 52nd minute. Croatian goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic was unable to stop the well-placed effort, leaving France within reach of leveling the aggregate score.
Croatia, determined to defend their advantage, resisted French pressure. However, with just 10 minutes remaining, Ousmane Dembele capitalized on a precise cutback from Olise to fire the ball into the net. The goal brought France level on aggregate, sending the match into extra time.
Despite France’s momentum, Livakovic remained a formidable presence in goal. He denied Kylian Mbappe on multiple occasions, preventing the hosts from finding a winning goal before the final whistle. The game proceeded to penalties, adding further tension to the contest.
In the penalty shootout, France goalkeeper Mike Maignan emerged as the decisive figure. He saved Martin Baturina’s initial attempt and, after Franjo Ivanovic missed his shot, France seemed on course for victory. However, Jules Kounde and Theo Hernandez both failed to convert their penalties, sending the shootout into sudden death.
Maignan once again came to France’s rescue, saving Josip Stanisic’s effort. Dayot Upamecano confidently stepped up and slotted home the decisive penalty, clinching a 5-4 shootout win for the hosts. France’s triumph sets up a semi-final clash with Spain in June, as they aim to reclaim the Nations League title they won in 2021.
As a result of the quarter-final victory, France will join Azerbaijan, Iceland, and Ukraine in World Cup Qualifying Group D. Meanwhile, Croatia, who fell short after reaching the 2023 final, will enter Group L alongside the Czech Republic, Faroe Islands, Gibraltar, and Montenegro.
