Croatia
Odds to win: 28/1
Overview
Croatia continue to defy expectations as one of the smallest nations to consistently compete at the highest level of international football. With a population of just four million, the Vatreni have produced an astonishing concentration of world-class talent and achieved results that far exceed what might be expected from a country of their size. Their runner-up finish at the 2018 World Cup and third-place finish at the 2022 World Cup cemented their status as genuine contenders at any tournament they enter. The 2026 World Cup will likely mark the final chapter for the legendary Luka Modric, whose longevity and sustained excellence have been extraordinary. At 40, Modric's ability to control the tempo of a match remains remarkable, and his World Cup farewell will provide powerful motivation for the entire squad. Mateo Kovacic and Marcelo Brozovic offer quality in midfield, though the challenge of replacing Modric's influence in the long term looms large. Josko Gvardiol has established himself as one of the best young defenders in world football at Manchester City, while the forward line features the talented but inconsistent options that have sometimes limited Croatia's attacking output. The team's greatest strength has always been their midfield control and tournament temperament, qualities instilled by a football culture that prioritizes technical development. Under Zlatko Dalic, who has overseen their golden era, Croatia will be motivated to deliver one more deep run for Modric's generation while laying the groundwork for the next.
Key Players
Luka Modric
Midfielder · AC Milan
Josko Gvardiol
Defender · Manchester City
Mateo Kovacic
Midfielder · Manchester City
Dominik Livakovic
Goalkeeper · Fenerbahce
Andrej Kramaric
Forward · Hoffenheim
World Cup History
Croatia reached the World Cup final in 2018 in Russia, losing to France 4-2, and finished third in 2022 in Qatar. They also achieved a remarkable third-place finish in their first-ever World Cup appearance in 1998, led by Davor Suker who won the Golden Boot. For a nation that gained independence in 1991, Croatia's World Cup record is extraordinary, having qualified for seven of the eight tournaments since their debut.
Group L Opponents
Fun Fact
Croatia's 2018 World Cup run saw them win three consecutive knockout matches on penalties or in extra time, displaying a mental resilience that has become the hallmark of Croatian football.
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