The story
The Croatia national football team, affectionately known to their passionate supporters as the Vatreni, enter the FIFA World Cup 2026 with high expectations. Currently ranked number 10 in the world, they bring a unique tactical identity and style from UEFA to this expanded 48-team tournament.
The ultimate big-game team - small nation, enormous heart, and a maestro's last waltz.
With the tournament co-hosted across the United States, Mexico, and Canada, Croatia will count on their travelling support to create a vibrant atmosphere. Their primary objective will be to make a statement in Group L and navigate their way to the high-stakes knockout rounds.
What to watch
Keep a close eye on their transition play in Group L. The connection between Luka Modrić and Joško Gvardiol is crucial to their attacking spark.
X-factor
Luka Modrić - the clinical midfield who holds the ability to turn a match on its head with a single moment of magic.
Croatia are poised to be one of the most intriguing stories of the group stage, bringing great energy to the tournament.
Their fixtures
Croatia 
Panama Late Drama Sees Croatia Beat Panama 1-0
A thrilling match in Philadelphia concludes with Croatia and Panama leaving everything on the pitch. Read the full post-match analysis.
England Croatia Late Drama Sees England Beat Croatia 4-2
Tactical discipline and clinical finishes defined this Matchday 2 encounter. Here is how England and Croatia fought out their clash.
Croatia 
Ghana Late Drama Sees Croatia Beat Ghana 2-1
The final whistle blew at Lincoln Financial Field with a 2-1 scoreline. Croatia and Ghana played out an absorbing contest in this Group L fixture.
Portugal Croatia Triumph for Portugal in Tense 2-1 Knockout Battle
A thrilling match in Toronto concludes with Portugal and Croatia leaving everything on the pitch. Read the full post-match analysis.