Mbappé criticized after France's loss to Croatia

Kylian Mbappé's return to the French national team faced harsh criticism after a 2-0 loss to Croatia in the Nations League quarter-final. Many media outlets expressed disappointment with the team's performance. Le Figaro called it "a real disappointment, to put it mildly." This match was Mbappé's first with the national team since September 9. Along with Mbappé, Ousmane Dembélé was also heavily criticized for their contributions. The French attack struggled to create chances, and the duo were described as "main culprits" for this. Despite having more possession and attempts on goal, France couldn't turn their efforts into effective plays. L'Équipe noted that both players did not perform as well for their country as they do for their clubs. Mbappé made six shots but lacked the finishing touch needed. Croatia scored their goals through Ante Budimir and Ivan Perisic in the first half. The teams will meet again for the second leg in Paris on Sunday. Mbappé has now gone six international matches without scoring, a troubling stat for the captain.