Overview

• Croatia capitalized on French defensive mistakes, with Ante Budimir and Ivan Perisic scoring in the first half to secure a 2-0 victory in Split.
• France's defensive line, including Konaté, Saliba, and Koundé, struggled significantly, contributing to both goals.
• Ousmane Dembélé's deployment as a number 10 was widely criticized, prompting tactical adjustments by Deschamps in the second half.
• Goalkeeper Mike Maignan saved an early penalty, preventing an even heavier defeat for the French side.
• France must win by at least two goals on Sunday to force extra time or by three goals to qualify directly for the UEFA Nations League Final Four.