The stage is set for an exciting clash as the French national football team gears up to face Croatia in the quarter-finals of the UEFA Nations League this Thursday, March 20, 2025, at 20:45 at the Stadion Poljud in Split. With the match broadcast live on TF1, football fans are bracing for what promises to be a thrilling encounter between two talented sides.
As the team arrives in Split, all eyes are particularly on Ousmane Dembélé, who has lit up the pitch with his performances at Paris Saint-Germain this season. At just 27 years old, Dembélé appears to have found his stride, achieving an impressive tally of 30 goals in just 37 matches across all competitions this season—a remarkable turnaround after previously struggling with inconsistencies. This has led to speculation about his positioning on the national team, where he is set to play as a number 10, just behind strikers Kylian Mbappé and Randal Kolo Muani.
Interestingly, France’s last five outings have been solid, remaining undefeated with four wins and a draw, setting a promising backdrop for the upcoming match. Didier Deschamps, the national team coach, is hoping to leverage Dembélé's newfound confidence for a strong performance against Croatia. His confidence on the ball has reportedly increased, with Dembélé expressing excitement about wearing the blue jersey.
During a recent training session, he was seen smiling and engaging with his teammates, showcasing a newfound assurance as he prepares to clash with the team that handed France heartbreak in the 2018 World Cup final. Dembélé remarked, "I feel great and ready to take on the challenge; we aim to deliver a strong message tonight against Croatia!" He will need this confidence to help French supporters forget past adversities.
Kylian Mbappé, back from a six-month absence from international duty, echoed similar sentiments about his teammate, calling Dembélé "an important weapon for our objectives." With both players in the side, Deschamps is relying on their synergy to pose a serious threat to Croatia's defenses. Mbappé stated, "If Ousmane performs like he does at PSG, we're bound to win matches." Given their on-field rapport, including multiple assists from Mbappé during earlier matches, the duo could certainly create dangerous chances.
France’s starting lineup showcases a mix of strength and tactical nuance: Mike Maignan will guard the goal, while the back four consists of Jules Koundé, Ibrahima Konaté, William Saliba, and Lucas Digne. In the midfield, Aurélien Tchouaméni anchors in front of the defense with Mattéo Guendouzi and Adrien Rabiot providing support. They will look to build a relationship with Dembélé and the forwards, ultimately looking to capitalize on goal-scoring opportunities.
The Croatian side, led by the experienced Luka Modric, known for causing problems for opponents with his playmaking abilities, is also a formidable opponent. With recent performances showing they are not far behind France, the stakes are high, and both teams are keen to secure a place in the semi-finals.
The last six meetings between the two nations have garnered significant attention, especially given the weight of their previous encounters, including the memorable final in 2018. Croatia will look to leverage their home advantage, while France aims to instill dread by reminding them of their past meetings.
Many football analysts predict that Dembélé will be key to France's success in this pivotal match. The former Barcelona player has notably improved since being repositioned as a number 9 at PSG under coach Luis Enrique, where he has showcased his scoring prowess and finishing ability.
As France approaches this critical moment, the question remains: can Dembélé replicate his club form on the international stage and contribute significantly to the national team's goals? His record, showing only six goals and four assists in 53 appearances with 'Les Bleus', indicates there’s still room for growth.
The anticipation builds as kickoff approaches. Fans expect Dembélé to step up during this weekend’s fixture as it marks a crucial opportunity to solidify his role in the squad. Others see this match as a litmus test for France’s overall progress and depth going into the latter stages of the tournament.
Notably, the match will also be made even more crucial, as a victory not only carries the weight of advancing in the tournament but also lifts the spirits of a collective French effort. The entire nation will keenly watch as France takes on Croatia under the spotlight where expectations and dreams collide. Will Ousmane Dembélé continue his scoring spree, becoming a key figure in this venture, or will the Croatian defense stand strong at their home ground? Only time will tell.
