France and Croatia are set to clash in a повторение of the 2018 World Cup final, a game where France triumphed 4-2. This time, they meet seven years later in the second leg of the UEFA Nations League quarterfinal. Croatia surprisingly won the first leg 2-0 on Thursday, adding extra intrigue to this matchup. The winner will advance to the semifinals to face the winner of the Spain vs. Netherlands game.
France will be without Marcus Thuram, the Inter Milan striker, who had to withdraw from the national team due to an ankle injury. Juventus forward Randal Kolo Muani will take his place in the attack. Croatia`s squad boasts experienced players such as captain Luka Modric, the Real Madrid midfielder. Modric is anticipated to play his 185th game for Croatia and is likely to be joined in midfield by Mateo Kovacic and Petar Sucic.
Match Information
- Date: Sunday, Mar 23
- Location: Stade de France — Paris, France
Predicted Lineups
Possible France XI: Maignan; Kounde, Upamecano, Saliba, T. Hernandez; Camavinga, Tchouameni; Olise, Dembele, Barcola; Mbappe.
Possible Croatia XI: Livakovic; Caleta-Car, Sutalo, Gvardiol; Stanisic, Modric, Kovacic, Sosa; Perisic, Kramaric; Budimir
Game Prediction
France is favored to win this return leg and overcome the first-leg deficit. They are expected to secure a spot in the Nations League semifinals. Our Pick: France to win 3-0.
Dominic Ashworth