CROATIA booked their place in the World Cup round of 32 after surviving a determined Ghana fightback to claim a 2-1 victory, with veteran captain Luka Modrić producing a masterclass to steer the 2018 runners-up into the knockout stage as Group L runners-up.
After a cagey opening in which clear-cut chances were scarce, Croatia broke the deadlock in the 31st minute through Petar Sučić, whose thunderous low strike from long range gave goalkeeper Benjamin Asare little chance after he was afforded space in midfield.
Fox News cited that the Inter Milan midfielder's second international goal transformed the tempo of the contest, allowing Croatia to grow in confidence after an opening half-hour dominated by disciplined defending from both sides.
Ghana, who had conceded their first goal of the tournament, responded impressively after the interval as head coach Carlos Queiroz reshuffled his side in search of greater attacking threat.
The tactical changes paid dividends as the Black Stars pinned Croatia deep inside their own half and eventually equalised in the 73rd minute. Centre-back Derrick Luckassen converted from Ernest Nuamah's free-kick after a lengthy VAR review confirmed the goal, ruling that Ghana's players in offside positions had not interfered with play.
The equaliser shifted momentum firmly in Ghana's favour, but Croatia's experienced core responded when it mattered most.
Mario Pašalić forced an excellent save from Asare in the 82nd minute before Croatia capitalised from the resulting corner. Modrić, earning his 201st international cap, delivered a pinpoint cross that found the unmarked Nikola Vlašić, who powered a header into the net to restore Croatia's lead.
The assist further underlined Modrić's enduring influence as the 40-year-old orchestrated Croatia's midfield with authority, combining precise distribution with tireless defensive work to halt Ghana's momentum during the closing stages.
Experienced campaigners Mateo Kovačić and Ivan Perišić also played pivotal roles as Croatia weathered late pressure to preserve their advantage and secure progression.
The result means Croatia advance to the round of 32 as Group L runners-up, where they are expected to face the second-placed team from Group K.
Despite defeat, Ghana had already secured qualification before kick-off following their earlier results and will now face the winners of Group K in what promises to be a formidable knockout challenge.
Croatia's victory was built less on flair than resilience, experience and defensive discipline, qualities that could prove decisive as Zlatko Dalić's side continue their World Cup campaign. - June 28, 2026
