On Monday night at the Stadion Poljud, the UEFA Nations League Group A1 match between Croatia and France ended in a 1-1 draw, with both teams sharing the spoils.
Croatia’s international break got off to a shaky start when they were thrashed 3-0 by Austria in their previous match, but they came back stronger in this one, with Budimir in particular causing France issues.
The world champions, who are in poor form after losing 2-1 at home to Denmark just a few days ago, eased into the contest and had a good chance denied by Livakovic just before halftime.
Rabiot’s clever goal gave Les Bleus the merited lead in the second half, bringing this slow contest to life.
However, Croatia, refused to give up and were rewarded late in the game when substitute Kramaric won and converted a penalty kick.
Andrej Kramaric levels it for Croatia from the penalty spot.
Croatia 1-1 France#3Sports pic.twitter.com/gTiWMvNmdM
— #3Sports (@3SportsGh) June 6, 2022
Although both teams had late opportunities to win, but a draw seemed to be a fair result.
After being projected to win Group A1 and possessing a plethora of talent, Didier Deschamps’ side will be disappointed not to have hung on for the win.
They’ve already blown five points from winning positions in the Nations League this season.
They must sharpen up if they want to recapture the World Cup in December.
They are now in third place in Group A1 with five points, five points behind Denmark, which defeated Austria 1-0. Croatia has the best goal differential of any side in the tournament.
FULL TIME
Croatia 1-1 France
Both sides will be happy to settle for a draw as it ends all square at the Stadion Poljud.https://t.co/8EIbYpkJys #UEFANationsLeague pic.twitter.com/efgOZts9Z0
— MailOnline Sport (@MailSport) June 6, 2022