A rematch of the 2018 World Cup final is on the horizon as France prepares to host Croatia. The French team, led by coach Didier Deschamps, famously secured victory in that World Cup final with a thrilling 4-2 scoreline. Now, seven years later, these two nations will clash once again in the second leg of the UEFA Nations League quarterfinal. Croatia enters this match with momentum after a surprising 2-0 victory in the first leg on Thursday. The winner of this contest will advance to the semifinals to face the winner of the Spain vs. Netherlands match.
France will be without the services of Inter Milan forward Marcus Thuram, who has withdrawn from the national team squad due to an ankle injury. Juventus striker Randal Kolo Muani has been called up as his replacement in attack. Croatia`s squad boasts experienced veterans, including captain Luka Modric, the Real Madrid midfielder. Modric is anticipated to make his 185th appearance for his national team and is likely to be joined in midfield by Mateo Kovacic and Petar Sucic.
Match Details
- Date: Sunday, Mar 23
- Location: Stade de France — Paris, France
- Odds: France +115; Draw +230; Croatia +290
Projected Starting 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
Match Prediction
France is favored to win this return leg and overcome the first-leg deficit. They are expected to progress to the Nations League semifinals. Prediction: France 3, Croatia 0.
