World Cup Preview: Croatia

Croatia arrive at the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a reputation as one of international football’s most resilient tournament teams. Despite a population of under four million, they have reached the World Cup final in 2018 and the semi-finals in 2022, consistently outperforming nations with far greater resources. With a core of experienced players and a proven manager, Croatia will once again fancy their chances of making a deep run.

Fixtures (UK time)

England, June 17, 9pm
Panama, June 24, 12am
Ghana, June 27, 10pm

How They Qualified

Croatia secured qualification through UEFA qualifying after another composed and efficient campaign, with just two points dropped against Czechia. As has often been the case during their golden era, they combined technical quality with an ability to deliver results in crucial matches. Qualification ensured Croatia would continue their remarkable record of appearing regularly at major tournaments and gave another talented generation the opportunity to shine on the biggest stage.

The Manager

Zlatko Dalic has become the most successful manager in Croatian football history. Appointed in 2017, he guided Croatia to the World Cup final just a year later before leading them to a third-place finish in 2022. The former midfielder built his coaching reputation in the Middle East before taking charge of the national team, where his calm leadership and man-management skills have become hallmarks of his tenure. Dalic has consistently extracted the maximum from his players and remains one of international football’s most respected coaches.

The Star

Luka Modric continues to be the heartbeat of Croatian football. Widely regarded as the greatest player in his country’s history, the midfielder has enjoyed a glittering career with Real Madrid, winning multiple UEFA Champions League and La Liga titles. His performances during Croatia’s run to the 2018 World Cup final earned him the Ballon d’Or, breaking the long-standing dominance of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. Even in the twilight of his career, Modric remains an inspirational leader and one of the most intelligent midfielders in world football.

The Familiar Face

Josko Gvardiol was a key member of the Manchester City squad that won the 2023-24 Premier League title and both domestic cups a year later. After emerging as one of Europe’s most highly rated young defenders with RB Leipzig, Gvardiol earned a move to the Etihad Stadium and quickly established himself as a key figure under Pep Guardiola. Comfortable at both centre-back and left-back, the defender combines physicality, composure and excellent distribution. Still in his early twenties, Gvardiol is already one of the leaders of Croatia’s next generation.

Did you know?

Croatia have played four World Cup penalty shootouts and won all four of them. Only Germany have won more World Cup shootouts without ever losing one.

The Prediction

Quarter-Finals

Writing off Croatia at major tournaments has become a dangerous habit. While they may no longer possess the depth of their 2018 squad, they retain an enviable blend of experience and emerging talent. England are likely to be their main rivals for top spot in Group L, but Croatia should have enough quality to progress comfortably. Their tournament pedigree and ability to thrive in pressure situations make them a dangerous knockout opponent, and another quarter-final appearance looks well within reach.

Cover Photo: FIFA World Cup 2014 by Mariya Butd used under license by CC BY 2.0.