March 21, (THEWILL) – Croatia gained a significant advantage in their Nations League quarter-final tie with France, winning the first leg 2-0 at home. Ivan Perisic delivered an outstanding performance, contributing both a goal and an assist during his 141st international appearance.
The match began dramatically when Croatia earned an early penalty after Ibrahima Konate handled the ball inside the box. Mike Maignan saved Andrej Kramaric’s penalty kick, but Croatia soon broke through when Ante Budimir headed home from Perisic’s cross. Perisic then doubled the lead himself with an excellent half-volley just before halftime.
France improved after the interval, creating several opportunities through Kylian Mbappe and Ousmane Dembele. The visitors managed only six shots on target from 17 attempts, with substitute Bradley Barcola missing their sole substantial chance.
Dominik Livakovic remained vigilant throughout the second half, making important saves including a stop from Mbappe’s curling effort. The result means Didier Deschamps’ team faces a considerable challenge in the return leg at Stade de France this Sunday.
This victory represents the first time Croatia have won consecutive matches against France, following their 1-0 triumph in the 2022 Nations League. Perisic became the first player since Wayne Rooney in November 2015 to record both a goal and an assist in the same match against France.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
