France vs Croatia facts, prediction, H2H and probable lineups — March 23, 2025
On Sunday, March 23, the return match of the UEFA Nations League will take place, with France hosting Croatia. The game will kick off at 20:45 CET, and I suggest betting on goals in this match.
France vs Croatia: match preview
France unexpectedly lost the first match in Croatia with a score of 0-2. Both goals were scored in the first half, and the Croatians could have won by a larger margin but missed a penalty. In the second half, the French leveled the game but couldn't break through the opponent's defense. Now, on their home turf, they face a tough challenge. Overall, in the current Nations League campaign, "Les Bleus" started with a loss but then went on a five-match unbeaten run to top the group.
Croatia competed in a tough group with Portugal, Poland, and Scotland. The team lost the first and fifth rounds, while in the other matches, they won twice and drew twice. In the playoffs, the Croatians faced a strong opponent and managed to outplay them in the first match. They looked better in the first half and scored two goals, although they missed a penalty. In the end, a confident 2-0 victory gives them a good advantage for the return game, although it will be much tougher away.
Match facts
- In the first match, Croatia defeated France 2-0.
- France has lost only one of their last five home matches.
- Croatia has not won away in four matches (three losses and one draw).
- In the previous game, France failed to score for the first time in eight matches.
- In 11 head-to-head encounters, France has won six times, Croatia twice, and three matches ended in a draw.
Prediction
France will be pushing forward aggressively, trying to come back and reach the "Final Four". However, Croatia is an experienced team also aiming for the semifinals. I expect both teams to score.
