Europe 1 with AFP / Photo credits: Attila KISBENEDEK / AFP 12:37 p.m., November 22, 2024, modified at 12:59 p.m., November 22, 2024
UEFA has just carried out the draw to determine the different matches for the quarter-finals of the Nations League. France inherits Croatia, finalist country in the 2018 World Cup.
The French football team will face Croatia in the quarter-finals of the Nations League, according to the draw carried out by UEFA this Friday in Nyon, Switzerland. The first leg will take place on March 20, 2025 in Croatia and the return match will take place on March 23, 2025 in France. If successful, things will get complicated for the Blues in the semi-finals since they will have to face, on June 4 or 5, 2025, the winner of the duel between Spain, the reigning European champion, and the Countries -Bottoms, semi-finalists of Euro-2024.
A prestigious poster
With Croatia in the quarter-finals, Didier Deschamps’ men, who finished at the top of their group after their great success in Italy on Sunday (3-1), were rather well off. The checkered selection is in fact in clear decline since its two exploits during the 2018 (final) and 2022 (semi-final) World Cups. Still led by the indestructible Luka Modric, 39, Croatia was exited in the first round of Euro-2024 and finished 2nd in its group in the Nations League behind Portugal.
In addition to the clash between Spain and the Netherlands, the other quarter-finals will pit Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal against Denmark and Germany against Italy, a prestigious match between two quadruple world champion nations. The semi-finals are scheduled for June 4 and 5, while the final and third place match will take place on June 8.
**While France boasts a star-studded squad, Croatia has a history of upsetting bigger teams in major tournaments. What specific tactical approaches or individual matchups could Croatia exploit to overcome France’s perceived advantages?**
## World Today News Exclusive Interview: Analyzing France’s Path in the Nations League
**Welcome to World Today News! Today, we’re joined by football experts [Guest 1 name and credentials] and [Guest 2 name and credentials] to analyze the thrilling quarter-final draw for the UEFA Nations League.**
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**Opening Remarks**
**Host:** First, let’s acknowledge the exciting fixtures revealed in the draw. France has drawn Croatia, a powerhouse team with a世界杯 pedigree. What are your initial thoughts on this matchup, and how do you see it playing out for France?
**Guest 1:**
**Guest 2:**
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**France vs. Croatia: A Clash of Titans**
**Host:** We know Croatia presented a formidable challenge in past World Cups. While they might not be at their peak right now, they remain dangerous. [Guest 1], do you believe this is a favorable draw for France, or does Croatia still pose a significant threat?
**Guest 1:**
**Host:** [Guest 2], do you agree? What are some key factors that will determine the outcome of this tie?
**Guest 2:**
**Host:** Didier Deschamps has often been praised for his tactical prowess and ability to adapt to different opponents. What tactical approaches do you anticipate seeing from both coaches in these crucial matches?
**Guest 1:**
**Guest 2:**
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**The Road Ahead: Potential Semi-Final Challenges**
**Host:** Should France navigate through Croatia, the semi-final presents another major hurdle – either Spain, the reigning European champions, or the Netherlands. [Guest 2], how would you assess these potential opponents and what challenges they would pose for France?
**Guest 2:**
**Host:** [Guest 1], do you agree with this assessment? What strengths do you see in both Spain and the Netherlands that could trouble France?
**Guest 1:**
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**The Bigger Picture: Analyzing the Other Quarter-Finals**
**Host:** Beyond France’s match, the draw has provided some other captivating matchups. Portugal versus Denmark and Germany versus Italy brim with historical significance and star power. What are your thoughts on these clashes and their potential impact on the tournament?
**Guest 1:**
**Guest 2:**
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**Concluding Thoughts**
**Host:** Thank you both for your insightful analysis. As we await these exciting matches, what are your overall predictions for the Nations League tournament? Who do you see emerging as champions?
**Guest 1:**
**Guest 2:**
**Host:** Thank you, [Guest 1] and [Guest 2], for sharing your expertise with us today. We look forward to the riveting football action ahead!
