France Beats Croatia 5-4 on Penalties in Nations League Quarter-Finals | Match Highlights

France Stuns Croatia in Thrilling Penalty Shootout to Secure Nations League Finals Spot

Paris, March 23, 2025 – In a heart-pounding UEFA Nations League quarter-final clash, France pulled off a remarkable comeback to defeat Croatia 5-4 on penalties after overturning a 2-0 first-leg deficit. The electrifying second-leg match at home ended 2-0 in regular time, leveling the aggregate score at 2-2, before Les Bleus clinched victory in a tense shootout to book their place in the final four.

A Night of Drama and Resilience

Trailing 2-0 from the first leg in Split, France coach Didier Deschamps shook things up with five changes to the lineup. The gamble paid off as his side delivered a performance brimming with flair and determination. From the opening whistle, France signaled their intent, with Manu Koné nearly scoring just three minutes in from an Ousmane Dembélé cross. Though the header soared over the bar, it set the tone for a relentless French onslaught.

Croatia’s defense, anchored by goalkeeper Dominik Livaković, held firm in the first half. Livaković’s heroics included a stunning save with his leg to deny Bradley Barcola, who latched onto a pinpoint pass from Michael Olise. Despite dominating possession, France struggled to find the breakthrough, with Kylian Mbappé firing wide and Aurélien Tchouaméni heading over from a corner.

Olise and Dembélé Spark the Turnaround

The deadlock finally broke in the 52nd minute when Olise, a rising star for France, curled a sublime free-kick over the Croatian wall and past a diving Livaković. The Stade de France erupted as the hosts halved the deficit, igniting hope among the passionate home crowd.

France’s pressure intensified, with Mbappé coming agonizingly close to leveling the tie with a fierce strike that whistled past the post. The equalizer arrived in the 80th minute, courtesy of a moment of brilliance from Olise. The midfielder turned provider, cutting the ball back to Dembélé, who rifled a first-time shot into the net to make it 2-0 on the night and 2-2 on aggregate.

Extra Time and Penalty Heroics

With momentum on their side, France pushed for a winner in extra time. Livaković, however, stood tall, thwarting efforts from Désiré Doué and Mbappé to keep Croatia alive. As the clock ticked down, neither side could find the decisive blow, sending the tie to a penalty shootout.

The shootout was a rollercoaster of emotions. France goalkeeper Mike Maignan emerged as the hero, saving shots from Martin Baturina and Josip Stanišić. Dayot Upamecano calmly converted France’s final penalty, sealing a 5-4 victory and sparking wild celebrations.

Voices from the Pitch

France goalkeeper Mike Maignan reflected on the team’s resolve: “We were hurt after the first leg, and tonight was about pride. We stayed focused from start to finish, even knowing it might go to penalties. I was ready for the moment.”

Croatia coach Zlatko Dalić graciously conceded defeat: “France were the better side tonight. We gave everything, but after three days, it was tough to recover. Penalties are a lottery, and luck wasn’t on our side.”

Michael Olise, who scored his first senior international goal, beamed with pride: “It’s a dream come true to score for France and help us win such a tough match. We left everything on the field.”

Key Stats and Takeaways

France have now won 10 of their last 14 home internationals, showcasing their fortress-like record.

Croatia had beaten France in their previous two encounters without conceding, making this turnaround even sweeter.

Les Bleus have kept four clean sheets in their last five home Nations League matches.

What’s Next?

France advance to the Nations League finals, joining the elite final four in a quest for the title. For Croatia, it’s a bitter end to a spirited campaign, but their resilience will surely fuel future ambitions.

This match was a testament to football’s unpredictability—a tale of grit, skill, and nerve that kept fans on the edge of their seats until the final whistle. France’s journey continues, and the football world can’t wait to see what’s next.