Croatia Stuns France: Modric and Budimir Lead a 2-0 Triumph in Split!
France falters, Croatia dominates, and Luka Modric delivers a midfield masterclass!
Croatia delivered a statement victory in the first leg of the Nations League quarter-finals, defeating France 2-0 at the Stadion Poljud in Split. Ante Budimir and Ivan Perisic were the heroes, while Luka Modric orchestrated a flawless midfield performance. Meanwhile, Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé struggled to spark life into a French side that now faces a crucial second leg in Paris.
A Nightmare Start for France
From the opening whistle, France found themselves in deep trouble. Croatia came out strong, pressing high and forcing mistakes. In just the 5th minute, disaster nearly struck for Les Bleus when Ibrahima Konaté conceded a penalty for a handball. Luckily for France, Andrej Kramaric wasted the opportunity, delivering a poor shot that Mike Maignan managed to save with his feet.
However, Croatia’s relentless attacks soon paid off. In the 35th minute, Ante Budimir capitalized on a perfect cross from Ivan Perisic, heading the ball towards goal. Maignan initially made the save, but the rebound bounced cruelly into the net. 1-0 Croatia.
France tried to respond, with Mbappé testing Dominik Livakovic on two occasions, but the Croatian goalkeeper was in top form, denying the Parisian star both times.
Perisic’s Stunning Strike Puts France on the Ropes
Just before halftime, Ivan Perisic, showing no signs of slowing down at 36 years old, unleashed a sensational volley from the edge of the box to double Croatia’s lead. It was a moment of brilliance that left France stunned and trailing 2-0 at the break.
Deschamps' Tactical Adjustments Fail to Inspire a Comeback
France’s Didier Deschamps attempted to shake things up after halftime, replacing Konaté with Upamecano, but the tactical change did little to alter the game’s dynamics.
France’s best chances came in the 60th minute, when Dembélé fired two close shots just wide and Mbappé attempted a long-range strike that failed to trouble Livakovic. The best opportunity fell to Real Madrid’s young star, who managed a powerful near-post effort—only to be denied by a spectacular reflex save from Livakovic.
Late substitutions, including Bradley Barcola and Eduardo Camavinga, failed to make an impact, leaving France frustrated as they failed to break Croatia’s disciplined defense.
Modric, Livakovic, and Budimir Shine for Croatia
At 38 years old, Luka Modric delivered a midfield masterclass, dictating play with 87% passing accuracy and six duels won. Behind him, Livakovic recorded six saves, frustrating the French attack at every turn. And up front, Budimir’s crucial goal set the tone for a remarkable Croatian victory.
Can France Turn the Tide in Paris?
With a 2-0 deficit to overturn, France must produce a heroic comeback at Stade de France in the second leg this Sunday. Will Mbappé and Dembélé rise to the occasion, or will Croatia complete the upset and advance?
Stay tuned for what promises to be a thrilling rematch!