PARIS, March 23 – France staged a dramatic comeback to secure their place in the Nations League Final Four, defeating Croatia 5-4 on penalties after overturning a two-goal deficit with a 2-0 victory in the second leg of their quarter-final at the Stade de France.
Upamecano Seals Shootout Victory
In a tense penalty shootout, Dayot Upamecano converted the decisive spot-kick, capping off a stellar performance from France goalkeeper Mike Maignan, who saved two penalties from Martin Baturina and Josip Stanisic. Croatia’s Franjo Ivanovic also missed, skying his attempt over the bar.
Despite Theo Hernandez and Jules Kounde missing for France, successful penalties from Kylian Mbappe, Aurelien Tchouameni, Randal Kolo Muani, Desire Doue, and Upamecano ensured Les Bleus advanced to the semi-finals, where they will face Spain.
France Dominate After First-Leg Collapse
Having suffered a 2-0 defeat in Split on Thursday, Didier Deschamps’ side knew they had a mountain to climb. However, they responded in style, dominating the game with 22 shots, while Croatia failed to register a single effort on target in 120 minutes.
Playing with high intensity and pressing aggressively, France kept Croatia on the back foot from the outset. Michael Olise provided the breakthrough in the 52nd minute, curling a sublime free kick under the bar.
With 10 minutes remaining, Ousmane Dembele doubled France’s lead, finishing off a brilliant team move initiated by Olise and Mbappe, forcing the game into extra time.
Maignan’s Heroics Secure the Win
Despite continued French pressure in extra time, Dominik Livakovic denied Doue twice and made a crucial save from Mbappe to force penalties. However, Maignan once again proved his reputation as a penalty specialist, ensuring Les Bleus’ dramatic passage into the Final Four.
Post-Match Reactions
Kylian Mbappe reflected on the team’s resilience, saying:
“We woke up this morning knowing it could be a great night. We were convinced we would do it, and we needed a game like this to get our fans back on our side.”
Croatia coach Zlatko Dalic admitted his side struggled to replicate their first-leg performance:
“It was really hard for us. We could not do what we did in Split. We gave everything, but tonight France were better.”
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What’s Next?
With their dramatic victory, France now turn their attention to the Nations League semi-finals, where they will take on Spain in a high-stakes clash. Meanwhile, Croatia exits the competition, left to reflect on a night where they simply couldn’t cope with France’s relentless attacking play.
