The UEFA Nations League quarterfinals deliver an electrifying encounter as Croatia vs France promises to be a battle of European football giants. Set for March 20, 2025, this match rekindles the excitement of past showdowns, including the 2018 FIFA World Cup final. With both teams eyeing a spot in the semifinals, the stakes are incredibly high.
📅 UEFA Nations League Quarter-Final First Leg Fixtures 🏆
— Match Spoots (@matchspoots) March 18, 2025
🔥 The road to the semi-finals heats up with thrilling matchups:#UEFANationsLeague #NationsLeague pic.twitter.com/nuxYQ0qkxa
Match Details:
- Date: Thursday, March 20, 2025
- Time:
- UK: 7:45 PM
- US ET: 2:45 PM
- US PT: 11:45 AM
- Venue: Stadion Poljud, Split, Croatia
- Broadcast Information:
- UK: TBC
- US: FOX Sports
Croatia’s Campaign: Chasing Glory
Croatia has had a rollercoaster journey in the Nations League, finishing second in Group A1. Under Zlatko Dalić’s leadership, they’ve displayed resilience but faced setbacks, including a three-match winless run in the group stage. Their recent 1-1 draw against Portugal, with Joško Gvardiol finding the net, underlined their fighting spirit.
Croatia Team News & Predicted Lineup
Squad Strengths: A mix of experienced stars and promising newcomers.
Unavailable:
- Luka Sučić (knee injury)
Key Players:
- Luka Modrić, Mateo Kovačić, Ivan Perišić, Dominik Livaković, Andrej Kramarić, Ante Budimir
Potential Debut:
- Franjo Ivanović
Predicted Formation: 5-4-1
- Goalkeeper: Dominik Livaković
- Defenders: Borna Sosa, Joško Gvardiol, Duje Ćaleta-Car, Josip Šutalo, Ivan Perišić
- Midfielders: Luka Modrić, Mateo Kovačić, Luka Ivanušec, Martin Baturina
- Forward: Igor Matanović
France’s Form: Aiming for Supremacy
Didier Deschamps’ side has been dominant, winning four of their six group games and conceding just six goals. Their recent 3-1 win over Italy, powered by an Adrien Rabiot brace, showcased their attacking prowess.
France Team News & Predicted Lineup
Unavailable:
- Marcus Thuram (ankle injury)
Returning Star:
- Kylian Mbappé (back after six months)
Rising Talent:
- Désiré Doué (first senior call-up)
Predicted Formation: 4-3-3
- Goalkeeper: Mike Maignan
- Defenders: Jules Koundé, Ibrahima Konaté, William Saliba, Lucas Digne
- Midfielders: Matteo Guendouzi, Manu Koné, Adrien Rabiot
- Forwards: Kylian Mbappé, Randal Kolo Muani, Ousmane Dembélé
Head-to-Head & Key Statistics
The rivalry between Croatia vs France has produced memorable encounters.
- Total Matches: 10
- France Wins: 6
- Croatia Wins: 1
- Draws: 3
- Last Meeting: June 2022 – Croatia won 1-0 (Nations League)
- France’s Away Form: Unbeaten in their last three away Nations League games, scoring nine goals
- Croatia’s Home Strength: Unbeaten in five Nations League home matches (three wins)
Match Prediction: Croatia vs France
With France’s firepower and defensive resilience, they enter as slight favorites. However, Croatia’s home advantage and experienced squad make them a formidable opponent.
Predicted Score: Croatia 1-2 France
The Croatia vs France quarterfinal promises high-intensity football, tactical battles, and moments of brilliance. Fans worldwide eagerly anticipate a clash that could define the Nations League’s knockout stage.
FAQs: Croatia vs France
Who are the key players to watch in Croatia vs France?
Luka Modrić and Joško Gvardiol will be crucial for Croatia, while Kylian Mbappé and Adrien Rabiot are expected to lead France’s attack.
Where will Croatia vs France be played?
The match will take place at Stadion Poljud in Split, Croatia.
What time does Croatia vs France kick off?
The game is scheduled for March 20, 2025, at 7:45 PM UK time, 2:45 PM ET, and 11:45 AM PT.
What are the recent head-to-head results between Croatia and France?
France has dominated with six wins in 10 matches, while Croatia has won only once. Their last meeting ended in a 1-0 victory for Croatia in June 2022.
Which TV channels will broadcast Croatia vs France?
In the US, FOX Sports will cover the game. The UK broadcaster is yet to be confirmed.
What is the predicted score for Croatia vs France?
Based on form and squad strength, France is favored to win 2-1, but Croatia’s home advantage could play a significant role.
