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'We needed a match like this' - Kylian Mbappe outlines significance of France's Nations League comeback victory over Croatia as Didier Deschamps hails 'instrumental' Real Madrid superstar on Les Bleus return

<p>Didier Deschamps' side lost the first leg 2-0 last week but <a href="https://www.goal.com/en-gb/lists/ousmane-dembele-and-michael-olise-outshine-kylian-mbappe-france-complete-nations-league-comeback-win-croatia-penalty-drama/blt89eba4fef6f977e5" target="_blank">produced a comeback to take the tie to a penalty shoot-out</a>, winning 5-4. It means they qualify for the Nations League finals in June, which Mbappe believes can do wonders for the team's confidence.</p>

WHAT HAPPENED?

<p>Mbappe made his return to the French fold this month having not previously featured since September, due to a combination of poor form and other issues. Though he did not score, he captained his side as they qualified for the final four.</p>

THE BIGGER PICTURE

<p>Mbappe said: "We started the match with a clear idea of delivering a great performance. We were convinced of our ability to come back despite being behind in the first leg, and we had to show that on the pitch. We needed a match like this to regain the support of our fans. We tried to create an exciting atmosphere as much as possible, unlike the first leg in Croatia, where we didn't feel like we were playing at home. The title is within reach."</p>

WHAT MBAPPE SAID

<p>Mbappe will now lead his side into the finals in June, where they will first take on Spain in a repeat of the Euro 2024 semi-final. The winner of that one-legged tie will take on the victor of Germany and Portugal in the final. </p>

WHAT NEXT FOR MBAPPE?

'We needed a match like this' - Kylian Mbappe outlines significance of France's Nations League comeback victory over Croatia as Didier Deschamps hails 'instrumental' Real Madrid superstar on Les Bleus return | Goal.com

France captain Kylian Mbappe claims Les Bleus &apos;needed a win&apos; like the one they managed over Croatia in the Nations League on Sunday. 

&apos;We needed a match like this&apos; - Kylian Mbappe outlines significance of France&apos;s Nations League comeback victory over Croatia as Didier Deschamps hails &apos;instrumental&apos; Real Madrid superstar on Les Bleus return