Croatia and Ghana face off in World Cup 2026 group...

By Aarav Reddy — 27 June 2026 — 4 min read

Match Overview and Early Play

The World Cup 2026 group stage match between Croatia and Ghana saw an early period of play characterised by a cautious approach from both teams. In the 8th minute, neither side appeared committed to consistently sending players forward to attack. This led to a slow pace, with one observer noting it felt like a training game where the objective was to avoid entering the opposition box.

Croatia, managed by Zlatko Dalic, began the match in a 4-2-3-1 formation. Ghana, under manager Carlos Queiroz, adopted a 4-1-4-1 formation. Early in the game, Croatia was seen casually passing the ball, while Ghana had limited possession. The initial minutes suggested that a draw might be a suitable outcome for both teams.

Around the 12th minute, the game’s slow tempo was highlighted, with minimal exertion from players. This prompted a comment that a hydration break would be unnecessary given the mild weather conditions. An optimistic pass by Luckassen went out for a goal-kick, further illustrating the lack of attacking penetration.

Developing Action and Player Performances

The 18th minute saw a significant moment when Croatia gained possession in midfield. Budimir drove forward, and Vlasic received the ball at the edge of the box, firing a shot that struck the outside of the post before going wide. This marked one of the more direct attacking plays in the early stages.

Later, in the 22nd minute, Croatia was awarded a free-kick approximately 35 yards from goal. Luka Modric took the free-kick, swinging it into the box after a brief delay due to jostling among players. Pongracic headed the ball over the bar.

As the first half progressed, Ghana had a throw-in high on the left in the 40th minute. Instead of immediately advancing, they moved the ball backward. However, the ball eventually returned, allowing Antoine Semenyo to drive into the box and fire a shot just wide of the goal.

The second half began with Fatawu making an impact for Ghana. In the 47th minute, he attacked down the right wing, cut inside, and delivered a dipping shot that went just over the bar. Minutes later, in the 51st minute, Fatawu again got down the right to the byline and sent a cross towards Semenyo, but it was slightly ahead of the Manchester City player and cleared at the back post.

In the 57th minute, Sulemana showcased a good touch on the left wing before delivering the ball into a dangerous area. However, Modric anticipated the play and intervened, putting the ball out for a corner. The 59th minute saw Pongracic attempt a clearance that inadvertently hit Modric, causing the ball to bounce inside the box. This led to a chase involving Livakovic and Ayew, which the goalkeeper ultimately won.

Team Form and Tournament Stakes

Croatia, the 2018 runners-up and 2022 third-place finishers, have a record of three wins and one draw against African opposition in World Cup matches since 2014, including their third-place victory over Morocco. Attacker Ivan Perisic expressed confidence in his team’s record against African sides, stating that past results have been positive and he believes this match will follow a similar pattern.

Manager Zlatko Dalic acknowledged that Croatia’s recent performances have not been at their best. He noted that the team has made uncharacteristic mistakes in passing and possession, areas where they were previously strong. Dalic emphasised the need for the team to raise their level of play and concentration. Perisic also mentioned that Ghana is a compact and capable team, and while they have played with a low block in previous matches, Croatia must be prepared for various tactical approaches.

Heading into the final Group L matchday, England and Ghana both have four points, while Croatia has three points. Panama has been eliminated. Croatia likely needs a draw against Ghana to secure a spot in the last 32. Luka Modric, who made his 200th international appearance in a previous match, is yet to fully find his rhythm in this tournament. Carlos Queiroz, Ghana’s manager, is known for his teams’ defensive discipline and organisation.

Croatia’s recent form includes a 4-2 loss to England and a narrow 1-0 victory over Panama, secured by Ante Budimir’s 54th-minute goal. The performance of goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic was crucial in the win against Panama. Ivan Perisic is 37 years old, and Luka Modric is 40 years old.

One fan observed Ghana’s goalkeeper collecting a cross without pressure and holding the ball for an extended period in the 8th minute, which they considered an unusual tactic for such an early stage of the game. Another fan noted that Ghana supporters behind them were counting passes to reach 100 before halftime. The rain had stopped at the stadium during the game.