In a thrilling UEFA Nations League quarter-final match at the Stade de France, the France national team achieved a remarkable turnaround against Croatia, winning 2-0 and forcing extra time with a 2-2 aggregate score on March 23, 2025. The victory set the stage for a dramatic penalty shootout where France ultimately triumphed 5-4.
France entered the match with a heavy burden following their disappointing 2-0 loss in the first leg of the tie held in Split just days earlier. Didier Deschamps' men needed a substantial performance to advance, and they responded emphatically, dominating possession and creating multiple scoring opportunities. Meanwhile, Croatia, looking to protect their lead, found themselves on the back foot as they played a defensive game.
The match started slowly, with France struggling to find their rhythm early on. Their first opportunity came in the 17th minute, when Michael Olise’s corner was almost directed into the net by Aurelien Tchouameni, only to go inches wide of the target. The Croatian defense proved stubborn, allowing limited chances for the home side throughout the first half, which ended with Croatia failing to register a shot on target.
Yet, the tide began to turn in the second half. France broke the deadlock just seven minutes after the restart when Olise whipped a free-kick over the Croatian wall, leaving goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic flat-footed and unable to stop the ball from nestling in the back of the net. With Croatia's aggregate lead reduced to only one goal, they were forced to retreat further, inviting more pressure from the French side.
Just as the home crowd’s hopes began to rise, Ousmane Dembélé doubled France's tally in the 80th minute, assisting a perfect setup by Kylian Mbappe. Dembélé's strike swept home and leveled the tie, sending the match into extra time with momentum clearly on France's side.
As the game progressed into extra time, both teams had an opportunity to score but could not capitalize fully. France managed to maintain control, yet Kylian Mbappe saw his well-placed volley surprisingly saved by Livakovic, keeping his team in the fight. With the first period of extra time ending without any additional goals, the outcome would now be decided by penalties.
The shootout started with tension high in the stadium. France's Mike Maignan was instrumental; he saved the first two penalties taken by Croatia, from Martin Baturina and Franjo Ivanovic, putting France in a commanding position. However, the pressure mounted as both Jules Kounde and Theo Hernandez missed their respective penalty kicks, keeping Croatia in the contest.
With each team scoring their fifth attempts, the score was tied at 4-4, setting up a nail-biting final shot where Dayot Upamecano successfully converted his penalty, sending Les Bleus into the semi-finals. This victory was vindication for France after their earlier defeat and ensured their berth among the last four teams in the tournament.
Throughout the match, Michael Olise was recognized for his significant contributions, scoring the opening goal and providing an assist for the second. His dynamism helped shift the momentum in favor of France, earning him the title of Man of the Match.
The match not only showcased the determination of the French squad but also highlighted their struggle to compose themselves early on, a lesson that they managed to overcome as the game progressed. Croatia's goalkeeper Livakovic was a standout performer, highlighting the importance of exceptional goalkeeping in tight matches.
This victory propels France forward as they look to reclaim glory in the UEFA Nations League, reflecting on their historical record against Croatia where they had previously won six out of eleven encounters. With this earnestly fought victory, France has shored up their confidence moving into the knockout stages, seeking to continue their path towards tournament glory.
The events at Stade de France reminded fans worldwide that football can be a game of not just skill but resilience and drama, especially amidst the high stakes of knockout tournaments.
