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Following a disappointing defeat in the first leg of the UEFA Nations League quarterfinals, France returns home, and according to pixiejars.com, they are expected to display a different level of intensity, aiming for a spectacular comeback against Croatia.
02:45 on March 24, 2025, UEFA Nations League Quarterfinals
After the first leg loss, supercomputers give France a 70% chance of victory in the second leg. Meanwhile, Croatia’s chances of winning this match stand at just 12%.
France vs. Croatia: A Clash of Titans
Pre-Match Analysis
The 0-2 first-leg defeat undoubtedly left Les Bleus’ supporters disheartened. However, a closer look at the match reveals that France was arguably more unlucky than outplayed. They dominated possession, outshot their opponents (11 to 6), and created several dangerous opportunities.
A lack of clinical finishing and a touch of misfortune ultimately cost them. Despite the setback, France possesses the quality and firepower to overturn the deficit in front of their home crowd. The return leg promises a captivating encounter as the two European powerhouses lock horns once again.
Croatia’s Upset and the Challenge Ahead
Croatia pulled off the biggest shock of the UEFA Nations League quarterfinals with their 2-0 victory over France. Their experience and tactical nous shone through in the first leg. However, their challenge is far from over. They now face the daunting task of traveling to France for the second leg, where the atmosphere will be electric.
Goalkeeper Dominik Livaković played a crucial role in Croatia’s victory, making at least five key saves to deny France. This performance will undoubtedly boost his confidence. However, the pressure will be significantly higher in the second leg, with France having nothing to lose and everything to gain.
France vs. Croatia: Predictions and Insights
Goal Predictions
Analyzing their recent form, France has scored nine goals in their last five matches, averaging 1.8 goals per game. Croatia trails slightly with eight goals, averaging 1.6 goals per game.
While the first leg produced only two goals, the second leg is expected to be a more open affair. With the home advantage and the need to attack, France is likely to push forward, creating more scoring opportunities. We anticipate a higher-scoring game with over three goals.
Corner Kick Predictions
France has averaged 6.6 corners per game in their last five matches. Croatia’s corner count is slightly lower at 5.6 per game.
The first leg saw a total of 12 corners, with nine awarded to France. When under pressure, France tends to generate a high number of corners. This trend is likely to continue in the second leg, with over nine corners predicted.
Card Predictions
Despite being a quarterfinal, the UEFA Nations League hasn’t historically been a high-stakes competition for the major nations. The first leg saw only two yellow cards, both shown to French players. A similar scenario is expected in the second leg, with neither team likely to over-commit in challenges.
Match Result Prediction
France 4-1 Croatia
Team News and Projected Lineups
Injury Updates and Squad News
France: A full-strength squad is available for selection.
Croatia: Igor Matanović and Luka Sučić are ruled out due to injuries, limiting coach Zlatko Dalić’s midfield options.
Predicted Starting XIs
France: Maignan; Koundé, Konaté, Saliba, Theo Hernandez; Rabiot, Tchouaméni; Dembélé, Olise, Barcola; Mbappé.
Croatia: Livaković; Jakic, Šutalo, Gvardiol, Sosa; Modrić, Kovačić; Perišić, Petra Sučić, Baturina; Kramarić.
Form and Head-to-Head Record
Recent Form
France: Three wins, one draw, and one loss in their last five matches, scoring nine goals and conceding five.
Croatia: Two wins, two draws, and one loss in their last five matches, scoring eight goals and conceding six.
Head-to-Head History
The head-to-head record between the two teams is perfectly balanced over their last five encounters, with two wins each and one draw.
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