Croatia outclassed France in a ruthless 2-0 win, but for Liverpool fans, the real nightmare unfolded as Ibrahima Konate limped off at halftime.
Croatia secured a 2-0 victory over France in their Nations League quarter-final first leg. Ante Budimir and Ivan Perisic scored as Croatia dominated. France struggled to create clear chances despite controlling possession.
Concerns arose with Konate during the first half. According to MSN, France suffered a major setback as Ibrahima Konate exited at halftime with a knock.
The Liverpool defender looked uncomfortable throughout the first half. Dayot Upamecano replaced him, but France’s defense remained vulnerable.
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Half-time substitution of Konate raises Liverpool concerns
Konate’s injury raises serious concerns for Liverpool. The center-back has struggled with fitness issues throughout the season. Arne Slot’s side is already dealing with defensive injuries and cannot afford another setback.
50 | Croatia 2-0 France
Ibrahima Konaté has picked up a knock in the first half (@FrenchTeam).
— Get French Football News (@GFFN) March 20, 2025
The reason for replacing Konate with Upamecano was described as a “knock”. Such wording may suggest that the French wall has not suffered a serious injury if any.
Liverpool relies heavily on Konate’s physicality and defensive presence. He has formed a crucial partnership with Virgil van Dijk. His absence could disrupt Liverpool’s defensive stability in the crucial stage of the season.
Croatia dominated the first leg of the Quarterfinals
Croatia missed an early penalty after Andrej Kramaric’s effort was saved by Mike Maignan. The hosts kept pressing and took the lead in the 26th minute. Maignan stopped Budimir’s header, but the ball spun over the line.
Perisic doubled Croatia’s lead just before halftime. A deflected shot fell to him inside the box, and he finished clinically. France’s defense struggled, especially after Konate’s exit.
France created chances but failed to convert. Didier Deschamps admitted France underperformed in the first half. “We lost the first leg, but we will fight to win the second,” he said.
Liverpool now await updates on Konate with his injury condition. His absence could impact their Premier League and Europa League ambitions. France must regroup quickly before the second leg in Paris.
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