France 0-1 Croatia: Luka Modric penalty ensures Didier Deschamps' side are eliminated from the Nations League

France remain rooted to the bottom of Nations League A Group 1, condemned to their second defeat in four games by Luka Modric’s penalty which, along with Denmark’s win against Austria, eliminated the holders from the competition with two games still to play. Croatia, meanwhile, move up to second, two points off the lead, and were good value for a fine win.

Ad/> The decisive goal came early, Karim Benzema clearing a corner while, behind him, Ibrahima Konate’s clumsy challenge on Josip Brekalo forced the referee to award a penalty. Modric’s kick wasn’t much good but Mike Maignan failed to keep it out despite going the right way and from then on, the half was played at Croatia’s tempo.

UEFA Nations LeaguePasalic fires Croatia to win over Denmark in the Nations League10/06/2022 AT 18:05 After the break, France improved, but Croatia remained calm in massed defence, also countering and moving the ball well around midfield when they could. Though the home side had most of of the ball – throughout the match – they couldn’t create single «Ye've gottae score!» chance, devoid of rhythm and cohesion, fully earning their fate.

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