Croatia beat Ghana 2–1 this Saturday in a Group L clash at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, securing second place for the Balkans and setting up a demanding knockout-round matchup in a tense finish at Philadelphia Stadium. Luka Modrić’s side found a way to break down a Ghana team that had not conceded a goal in the tournament.

CROATIAN CONTROL FROM THE START

Croatia dominated possession with patience and midfield control led by Luka Modrić, against a Ghana side sitting deep in a 4-5-1 setup.

A mistake in build-up play in the 16th minute allowed Nikola Vlašić to strike the post. Croatia’s pressure paid off in the 31st minute when Petar Sučić fired from the edge of the box to make it 1–0.

GHANA’S RESPONSE AND CROATIA’S WINNER

Ghana improved after the break with higher pressing, as Antoine Semenyo went on a 30-meter run that ultimately came to nothing.

In the 73rd minute, a set piece led to a header from Derrick Luckassen, assisted by Nuamuah, initially checked for offside by VAR before being confirmed by referee Drew Fischer.

Croatia responded immediately: Mario Pašalić forced a save from Asare, and from the resulting corner delivered by Modrić, Vlašić sealed the 2–1 victory with a header.

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