France Prepares For Critical Clash Against Croatia

As the French national team gears up for a crucial League of Nations quarter-final clash against Croatia, scheduled for Thursday, March 20, 2025, at 20h45 in Split, coach Didier Deschamps is aligning his top offensive talents, including the in-form Ousmane Dembélé and Kylian Mbappé. Dembélé, who has netted an impressive 30 goals this season, is expected to partner with Mbappé in a powerful attacking duo.

Deschamps has made tactical adjustments to ensure a robust performance against the Croatians, with Lucas Digne set to secure the left defensive flank, although Théo Hernandez has trained separately as of March 19. Additionally, Mattéo Guendouzi is poised to take the midfield slot previously held by Manu Koné, highlighting a blend of strategy and player rotation as both sides vie for a spot in the semi-finals.

The probable starting lineup for France reads: Maignan; Koundé, Konaté, Saliba, Digne; Tchouaméni, Guendouzi, Rabiot; Kolo Muani, Dembélé, Mbappé. As they travel to Split on the morning of March 19 for the pivotal match, the spirit in the camp appears buoyant, with a training session scheduled for later the same day at 18h.

Philippe Diallo, the president of the French Football Federation (FFF), is on-site to support the team's thorough preparation, underscoring the importance of this showdown. Deschamps took time in a recent press conference to share insights on his strategy, emphasizing player welfare amid a busy schedule filled with matches. “I think about the physical integrity of the players,” stated Deschamps, hinting at how he intends to manage playing time across his squad to avoid injuries.

On a more personal note, Deschamps addressed controversial banners displayed against Rabiot, declaring them “inadmissible” and acknowledging that Rabiot was understandably affected by the incident. The French coach expressed confidence in his leadership choices, reaffirming Kylian Mbappé’s role as captain while suggesting that other players, like Aurélien Tchouaméni, may also play pivotal leadership roles as needed.

The importance of securing two solid performances against Croatia cannot be overstated, as Deschamps noted that the first match could significantly influence the second, occurring just a few days later. “We must not have a waiting attitude,” he urged, while also avoiding giving any tactical advantages to their opponents. Deschamps revealed, “Their coach will have analyzed what we've done, and vice versa. We will think first about the first match.”

Mbappé also spoke to the media as part of the press event, displaying enthusiasm for rejoining the French squad. Commenting on his relationship with Dembélé, he said, “I have always been excited to play with him. We know each other inside out, and it adds another string to our bow.” This sentiment echoes the broader confidence shared by players as they approach this critical juncture of the competition.

However, fatigue among players is a prevailing concern, with Deschamps admitting that many are exhausted after a series of dense match weeks, stating, “The players have arrived very tired.” This fatigue, shared across both teams given their similar conditions leading up to this match, could greatly influence performance as both teams aim for success.

In building momentum towards their key matches, Deschamps has highlighted the significance of this tournament. “It matters,” he stated. “We won this competition with joy. It’s part of our objectives. The goal is the same: to do everything to reach the Final Four in June.” If they advance, France could find itself competing again for glory, just as they did in Italy two years prior.

Meanwhile, Mbappé was also asked about his feelings toward other stars like Luka Modric, reflecting on their connection at Real Madrid. “Modric is a legendary player; it is an honor to share the field with him,” he said, noting the friendly rivalry between the two. Furthermore, he spoke candidly about dealing with criticism, acknowledging that he accepts valid critiques. “I’ve never had problems when they are well-reasoned; I can understand many things,” he stated, referring to past performances and the pressures of high expectations.

Additionally, the atmosphere surrounding Rabiot was a hot topic during the press conference. Reflecting on the distress caused by the banners, Mbappé expressed solidarity, saying, “I’ve spoken with Adrien; it’s difficult. Little do people know what it feels like to go through such things.” He reinforced that comments regarding players’ families are out of line and highlighted the need for boundaries in fan expression.

As the match approaches, the stakes couldn’t be higher. A key determinant for France’s upcoming calendar hinges on the results of this double confrontation with Croatia. “If we qualify for the semi-finals, we will head to Germany or Italy for the Final Four.” This scenario presents the potential for France to participate in their second Final Four in four editions. Conversely, not advancing would mean an immediate shift to World Cup qualifying preparations, resurfacing only months after the intense battle against Croatia.

If they do not qualify for the Final Four, France’s qualifying stages for the 2026 World Cup would initiate with an away match against the Czech Republic on June 6, followed by a home fixture three days later. France's route to the World Cup in the face of potential failures will remain critical, as only the top contenders in their groups will secure spots for the prestigious tournament slated to take place in the USA, Mexico, and Canada.

With both teams poised to deliver their best, this quarter-final clash presents an exhilarating opportunity not just to showcase their skills but to assert themselves on a global stage at a moment where every play, every pass, could shape the destiny of their international football journey.