Discover how Maignan’s outstanding performance led France to a 2-0 victory over their rivals in the Nations League Quarterfinals. Read more about the match highlights.
Introduction:
France secured their place in the Nations League semi-finals after a dramatic victory over Croatia in a match that had everything—from tactical brilliance to nerve-wracking penalties. Having trailed by two goals from the first leg, Didier Deschamps’ side showed immense resilience, clawing back the deficit and ultimately prevailing in a tense penalty shoot-out.
Olise Takes Centre Stage in the No. 10 Role
Michael Olise was one of the key players tasked with bridging midfield and attack for France. Deployed in a traditional No. 10 role just ahead of Aurélien Tchouaméni and Manu Koné, Olise was instrumental in France’s forward thrusts, combining effectively with Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé. See also: Kleindienst and Goretzka Seal Germany’s First Win
France Apply Early Pressure
From the outset, France pressed high and dictated the tempo. Dembélé’s cross into the box saw Koné rise highest, but his header flew over the bar. The home side continued to probe, with Maignan restarting play quickly, ensuring momentum remained in France’s favor.
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A moment of excitement erupted when Marcus Thuram and Olivier Giroud were spotted together in the stands—evoking memories of Thuram’s legendary brace against Croatia in the 1998 World Cup semi-final. On the pitch, France maintained dominance, creating several chances but failing to break the deadlock early on.
Croatia’s Defensive Resilience
Despite France’s relentless attacks, Croatia remained compact in defense. Luka Modrić and Mateo Kovačić anchored the midfield, with Josip Stanišić and Joško Gvardiol providing a resolute defensive shield. Kovačić, in particular, displayed exceptional composure under pressure, showcasing his ability to navigate through tight spaces.
France’s Persistence Pays Off
After sustained pressure, France finally found their breakthrough. A sublime free-kick from Olise curled over the Croatian wall and past Dominik Livaković, igniting the Stade de France crowd. With the deficit now halved, Les Bleus pushed forward relentlessly.
The equalizer soon followed. Mbappé, displaying his trademark acceleration, fed Olise on the right side of the penalty area. The youngster turned provider, sliding a precise ball to Dembélé, who made no mistake, blasting it into the net. With the tie now level at 2-2 on aggregate, the match was poised for a grandstand finish.
Extra Time Drama
As the game entered extra time, Croatia struggled to relieve the pressure. Gvardiol produced a heroic block to deny Dembélé, while Livaković made two outstanding saves from substitute Désiré Doué. France controlled possession but could not find the decisive goal, leading to the ultimate test—penalties.
The Penalty Shoot-out: Maignan the Hero
The shoot-out began with Croatia’s Baturina seeing his penalty saved by Maignan. France captain Mbappé coolly converted his spot-kick, giving Les Bleus an early advantage. Nikola Moro equalized for Croatia, but France stayed ahead through Tchouaméni’s powerful strike.
As the pressure mounted, Croatia faltered. Franjo Ivanović sent his penalty over the bar, while France’s Kolo Muani made it 3-2. After a miss from Theo Hernández, Croatia leveled the shoot-out at 3-3. The drama intensified as Duje Ćaleta-Car put Croatia ahead, only for Doué to respond with a composed finish.
Stanišić then saw his effort saved by Maignan, leaving Upamecano with the chance to seal the win. The defender confidently dispatched his penalty into the top corner, sending the Stade de France into raptures.
France March On, Croatia Fall Just Short
The dramatic victory saw France overturn their first-leg deficit to advance to the semi-finals. Croatia, despite a valiant effort, bowed out after a tense and closely fought contest.
Deschamps’ tactical adjustments and the performances of Olise, Mbappé, and Maignan proved decisive, ensuring Les Bleus remained in contention for Nations League glory.