Croatia

Full TimeWorld Cup

Portugal

2–1

Croatia

C. Ronaldo 68'

G. Ramos 90'

I. Perisic 53'

Croatia 2026 World Cup Stats

After narrowly missing out in glory in 2018 – and again in 2022 – Croatia head into the 2026 World Cup continuing one of international football’s most remarkable modern stories. Despite their relatively small population, Croatia consistently punch above their weight through technical quality, tactical intelligence and exceptional tournament mentality.

Luka Modrić, even in the latter stages of his career, remains a symbolic and influential figure, providing leadership and composure in midfield. Joško Gvardiol has emerged as the defensive leader of the next generation, combining physicality, intelligence and top-level experience. Mateo Kovačić adds balance and control in midfield, while Martin Baturina is one of the most exciting emerging talents in Croatian football.

Croatia qualified through UEFA competition with characteristic efficiency, reinforcing their status as one of Europe’s most consistent tournament teams. While transition is gradually taking place between generations, expectations remain high. Their experience and unity make them a dangerous opponent for any nation, with another deep run far from out of the question.

Croatia Stats Summary

  • Croatia World Cup fixtures: England on June 17 at the Dallas Stadium (9pm), Panama on June 24 at the Toronto Stadium (12pm) and Ghana on June 27 at the Philadelphia Stadium (10pm).
  • Croatia qualifying record: 1st in Group L, UEFA qualifying
  • Croatia captain: Luka Modric
  • Croatia World Cup odds: 80/1
  • Croatia to reach the final: 28/1
  • Croatia star player: Luka Modric
  • Croatia player to watch: Martin Baturina
  • Croatia World Cup best finish: Runners-up in 2018
  • Croatia World Cup appearances: 6 (including 2026)
  • Croatia World Cup matches played: 30
  • Croatia World Cup matches won: 13
  • Croatia World Cup matches drawn: 8
  • Croatia World Cup matches lost: 9
  • Croatia World Cup goals scored: 43
  • Croatia World Cup matches conceded: 33

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Any betting decisions should be made responsibly and there are no guarantees when it comes to match outcomes. Odds correct at the time of publication and are subject to change.

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Full name Croatia
Nickname(s) The Checkered Ones
Short name CRO
Major trophies N/A
Founded 1940 (first international, won 4-0 vs Switzerland)
Head coach Zlatko Dalic

World Cup · Group L

Team GP W D L Pts
1.
England
3 2 1 0 7
2.
Croatia
3 2 0 1 6
3.
Ghana
3 1 1 1 4
4.
Panama
3 0 0 3 0

Squad data unavailable.

Latest Matches

No domestic matches found.

UEFA Nations LeagueOct 6, 2026
Croatia1
Spain2
UEFA Nations LeagueOct 3, 2026
Croatia0
England7
UEFA Nations LeagueSep 29, 2026
Spain4
Croatia1
UEFA Nations LeagueSep 26, 2026
Czechia1
Croatia2
World CupJul 2, 2026
Portugal2
Croatia1
World CupJun 27, 2026
Croatia2
Ghana1
World CupJun 23, 2026
Panama0
Croatia1
World CupJun 17, 2026
England4
Croatia2
FriendliesJun 7, 2026
Croatia2
Slovenia1
FriendliesJun 2, 2026
Croatia0
Belgium2