Believe it or not, Croatia and France find themselves in the bottom two of UEFA Nations League Group A1 after suffering opening-day defeats last week.
The Croatians sit rock bottom of the group following a 3-0 loss to Austria, while Les Blues are third after going down 2-1 to Denmark.
Artist: a person who creates art using conscious skill and creative imagination 🎨@Benzema #FiersdetreBleus pic.twitter.com/l8OdnaYYIr— French Team ⭐⭐ (@FrenchTeam) June 5, 2022
Artist: a person who creates art using conscious skill and creative imagination 🎨@Benzema #FiersdetreBleus pic.twitter.com/l8OdnaYYIr
The two sides clash at Split’s Stadion Poljud on Monday night. Who will come out on top? Let’s start by looking at the hosts, Croatia.
Despite racking up 61% possession and 13 shots on Friday, Croatia were unable to prevent three Austrian goals without reply.
The Croatians were enjoying a nine-game unbeaten streak before meeting Austria, having picked up six wins and three draws since last summer’s European Championship.
However, they were brought back down to earth on Friday – suffering only their fourth loss in 15 outings since the beginning of 2021.
It is worth noting that six of Croatia’s previous eight games have produced over 2.5 goals, meaning we could see a high-scoring clash on Monday.
Funnily enough, France also dominated their previous game but failed to come away with anything to show for their efforts.
The French chalked up 60% possession and 19 shots, with Karim Benzema scoring the game’s first goal on 51 minutes.
However, a late brace from Andreas Cornelius saw Denmark come from behind to snatch all three points – stunning the reigning World Cup champions.
Following a disappointing last-16 exit from Euro 2020, Les Blues enjoyed an unbeaten run of seven wins and two draws.
Although they lost their previous game, it is worth noting that France enjoyed a seven-match winning streak between September and March.
Head-to-head: In eight attempts, Croatia have never managed to beat France – registering two draws and six losses.
Six of the eight meetings between Croatia and France have dished up over 2.5 goals, with France defeating Croatia 4-2 in the 2018 World Cup final.
Team news: Croatia head coach Zlatko Dalic is expected to ring the changes following the 3-0 loss to Austria. Luka Modric is likely to start after coming off the bench last time out.
With Manchester United centre-back Raphael Varane leaving the France squad due to injury, Liverpool’s Ibrahima Konate has earned his first senior call-up.
Although France suffered a disappointing defeat last time out, they are expected to flex their muscles on Monday.
With that in mind, Forebet predicts that France will score over 1.5 goals on their way to beating Croatia.