France Overcomes Croatia in Penalty Drama to Secure Nations League Semi-Final Spot

A 2-0 comeback win and Mike Maignan's penalty heroics propel France past Croatia into a June showdown with Spain.

France overturned a 2-0 first-leg deficit to defeat Croatia 2-0 in regular time and 5-4 in a penalty shootout at the Stade de France.
Michael Olise scored his first goal for the national team with a stunning free kick, while Ousmane Dembélé equalized the aggregate with a decisive second goal.
Goalkeeper Mike Maignan secured victory with two crucial saves during the penalty shootout, cementing his role as a key player in the win.
Didier Deschamps' tactical adjustments, including a more offensive lineup, were instrumental in France's dominant performance.
France will face Spain in the UEFA Nations League semi-finals on June 5, 2025, in Stuttgart, continuing their pursuit of the title.