ππ· Croatia
World Cup 2026 | Group L | Power rating | World rank #13
About Croatia
Croatia are serial overachievers who repeatedly reach the latter stages. A UEFA side, they enter the 2026 World Cup rated 1906 -13th of the 48 teams -in Group L.
World Cup finalists in 2018 and third-place finishers in 1998 and 2022. Midfield-driven and tactically mature, controlling games through technical central players.
Drawn alongside England, Ghana and Panama, their toughest group test on paper is the meeting with England. The model lists them 2nd in the group and to reach the Round of 16.
Detailed team profile
Overview
Croatia remain a technically secure, tournament-savvy side shaped by midfield control, experienced leadership and a strong competitive culture.
World Cup history
Croatia were World Cup runners-up in 2018 and finished third in 1998 and 2022. Their modern World Cup record is among the strongest of any mid-sized football nation.
Recent form
Croatia qualified by winning UEFA Group L.
2026 World Cup angle
Group L places Croatia in a high-profile opener against England and winnable fixtures against Ghana and Panama. Their ceiling depends on whether the aging core still has enough intensity for another deep run.
Group-stage results & analysis
| Match | Score | Croatia model share |
|---|---|---|
| vs England FT | 2 : 4 | -- |
| vs π΅π¦ Panama FT | 1 : 0 | -- |
| vs π¬π Ghana | 2 : 0 | 72% |