Croatia World Cup 2026 Tickets

Current Squad & Key Players

Off the back of a convincing qualifying campaign, Croatia head into this summer's World Cup a team in form. Their squad is largely settled; however, as with any international football team, there is a need for evolution and experimentation, as you can see from their squad below.

November qualifying squad

GK: Dominik Livaković (Girona)
GK: Ivica Ivušić (Hajduk Split)
GK: Ivor Pandur (Hull City)
DF: Joško Gvardiol (Manchester City)
DF: Duje Ćaleta-Car (Real Sociedad)
DF: Josip Šutalo (Ajax)
DF: Josip Stanišić (Bayern Munich)
DF: Marin Pongračić (Fiorentina)
DF: Martin Erlić (Midtjylland)
DF: Luka Vušković (Hamburger SV)
MF: Luka Modrić (Milan)
MF: Mario Pašalić (Atalanta)
MF: Nikola Vlašić (Torino)
MF: Kristijan Jakić (FC Augsburg)
MF: Petar Sučić (Inter Milan)
MF: Nikola Moro (Bologna)
MF: Toni Fruk (Rijeka)
FW: Ivan Perišić (PSV Eindhoven) (vice-captain)
FW: Andrej Kramarić (TSG Hoffenheim)
FW: Mislav Oršić (Pafos)
FW: Marco Pašalić (Orlando City)
FW: Franjo Ivanović (Benfica)
FW: Petar Musa (Dallas)
FW: Igor Matanović (SC Freiburg)

Key players

Luka Modrić - The captain and heartbeat of the team, even at 40. His vision, passing, and leadership remain unmatched, and this World Cup is likely to be his final major tournament.

Joško Gvardiol - A world-class defender, strong in duels, composed on the ball, and capable of launching attacks from the back.

Mateo Kovačić - Offers quality and creativity in midfield. Known for his dribbling and ability to carry the ball forward, he complements Modrić perfectly.

Notable omissions from Croatia's latest squad

Mateo Kovačić – One of their most technically gifted midfielders, not listed here due to injury.

Marcelo Brozović (Al Nassr) – A key part of Croatia's midfield for years, retired from international duty after Euro 2024.

Croatia's World Cup Qualification Journey

Croatia's path to the 2026 World Cup was dominant. Placed in Group B alongside the Faroe Islands, the Czech Republic, Montenegro, and Gibraltar, they delivered an impressive qualification campaign, winning seven out of eight matches and drawing the remaining game. The Czech Republic proved to be their biggest challengers for top spot, but Croatia never looked in any real danger throughout the qualifiers. Andrej Kramarić ended as their top scorer during qualifying with six goals in eight games, but manager Zlatko Dalić will be hoping his team can boost their goal threat at this summer's tournament. Take a look at Croatia's qualifying results below:

• June 6, 2025 – Gibraltar 0-7 Croatia
• June 9, 2025 – Croatia 5-1 Czechia
• September 5, 2025 – Faroe Islands 0-1 Croatia
• September 8, 2025 – Croatia 4-0 Montenegro
• October 9, 2025 – Czechia 0-0 Croatia
• October 12, 2025 – Croatia 3-0 Gibraltar
• November 14, 2025 – Croatia 3-1 Faroe Islands
• November 17, 2025 – Montenegro 2-3 Croatia

Croatia's Group Assignment & Opponents

Croatia have been drawn in Group L alongside England, Panama, and Ghana for the World Cup group stage. Their campaign begins on 17 June 2026 against England at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, a fixture that will see them face one of Europe's strongest sides in a high-profile clash. Their second match comes on 24 June at BMO Field in Toronto, where they take on Panama, a team known for their ability to frustrate more established nations. Croatia's final group game is scheduled for 27 June against Ghana at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, a meeting with a side renowned for pace and physicality.

This means Croatia's group features opponents from Europe, Central America, and Africa, each bringing contrasting qualities. England provide pedigree and star power, Panama bring enthusiasm and determination, while Ghana add unpredictability and strength.

The expanded 48-team format increases the chance of upsets, but Croatia's tournament pedigree, midfield dominance, and ability to rise to big occasions should give them confidence as they aim to progress to the knockout rounds and build on their impressive recent World Cup record.

Croatia's World Cup 2026 Fixtures

Croatia face a tough start to their World Cup campaign with fixtures against three experienced sides; however, they will need to back themselves if they stand any chance of escaping from Group L. Take a look at their group stage fixtures below:

• June 17, 2026 – England vs Croatia (AT&T Stadium, Arlington, USA)
• June 24, 2026 – Panama vs Croatia (BMO Field, Toronto, Canada)
• June 27, 2026 – Croatia vs Ghana (Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia, USA)

Croatia's Tactical Approach & Playing Style

Croatia's football identity is built around their midfield, which has long been the heartbeat of the team. Luka Modrić still sets the rhythm with his vision and passing, while Mateo Kovačić brings energy and the ability to carry the ball forward. Together, they give Croatia control of matches and the confidence to dictate tempo against almost anyone.

At the back, Joško Gvardiol has emerged as a leader, while experienced figures ensure the defence remains organised and hard to break down. Out wide, Ivan Perišić continues to offer width and crossing quality, while up front, Andrej Kramarić adds his finishing prowess.

Croatia are comfortable keeping possession, but they are equally dangerous when breaking quickly. Their transitions from midfield to attack can punish teams that leave space, and their resilience in tight knockout games has become a trademark.

Host Cities & Venues Where Croatia Plays

Croatia begin their World Cup campaign on 17 June 2026 against England at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. One of the most iconic venues in the United States, AT&T is renowned for its sheer scale, retractable roof, and record-breaking video board. Home to the Dallas Cowboys, it has already staged major football fixtures including Gold Cup and Copa América matches, so it's sure to be the perfect host for such a huge game early in the tournament.

Their second fixture, against Panama on 24 June, takes place at Toronto's BMO Field, known during the tournament as Toronto Stadium. With its modern design and views of Lake Ontario, BMO Field is Canada's premier football venue. Opened in 2007, it's hosted MLS matches, international friendlies, and youth World Cup games, and will provide the perfect backdrop for Croatia's second group match.

Croatia's final group game on 27 June against Ghana will take place at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia. Known locally as The Linc, it has been home to the Philadelphia Eagles since 2003 and has hosted major football events, including Gold Cup fixtures and the Club World Cup. Its proven track record and lively atmosphere make it an ideal stage for what could be a big game.

World Cup 2026 Fanzones for Croatia Supporters

The World Cup Fan Festival is the go-to destination for fans without a stadium ticket to watch World Cup games. Located across the host cities, fans can watch live match screenings, eat local food and see some top-tier entertainment, all while soaking in the tournament atmosphere. Below is a list of the fan zones already announced across the host cities and the ones that are suspected to play a part:

Croatia's Tournament Predictions & Chances

Although they are certainly not among the favourites, Croatia do have the talent to progress to the later stages of the World Cup. While sides like England, Spain, Brazil, Argentina, and France dominate the headlines, Croatia could be a surprise package.

Currently ranked 10th in the World Rankings, Croatia demonstrated the defensive solidity and attacking nous needed to progress from the group stage, but they have been given a tough start to their tournament. Drawn alongside England, Ghana, and Panama, Croatia will face a tough battle to progress from Group L. However, if manager Zlatko Dalić can successfully integrate his emerging talents with the experienced leaders already in his squad, there's no reason why Croatia can't make this a memorable tournament for their fans.

Croatia's World Cup History & Legacy

Croatia's journey at the World Cup is one of the most remarkable modern success stories. Having gained independence in the early 1990s, they made their debut at France 1998 and stunned the football world by reaching the semi-finals. Led by Davor Šuker, who won the Golden Boot, they finished third, immediately establishing themselves as a nation capable of competing with the very best.

The following years brought steady appearances, but it was in Russia 2018 that Croatia entered a golden era. Under Zlatko Dalić, they produced an incredible run to the final, defeating Argentina, Denmark, Russia, and England before losing to France. This achievement made them the second-smallest country by population ever to reach a World Cup final. Four years later in Qatar, Croatia reinforced their reputation by finishing third, overcoming Morocco in the play-off, proving their consistency at the highest level.

In just six World Cup appearances, Croatia have achieved three top-three finishes: third in 1998 and 2022, and second in 2018. Despite their size, Croatia have reached the semi-finals in half of their tournaments, a record that places them among the most efficient and respected nations in World Cup history.

Croatia's Squad Strengths & Weaknesses

Strengths

• Midfield dominance: Croatia's greatest asset remains their midfield. Luka Modrić, even in the twilight of his career, continues to dictate tempo, while Mateo Kovačić provides balance and creativity.
• Defensive resilience: Joško Gvardiol has emerged as one of Europe's finest defenders, combining composure with strength.
• Tournament pedigree: With a World Cup final in 2018 and a third-place finish in 2022, Croatia have proven their ability to rise to big occasions.

Weaknesses

• Ageing core: Modrić and Perišić remain influential but are nearing the end of their careers, raising questions about long-term sustainability.
• Reliance on key figures: The team leans heavily on Modrić's creativity and Gvardiol's defensive leadership. Absences or dips in form could expose vulnerabilities.

How to Buy World Cup 2026 Tickets for Croatia

The World Cup is the pinnacle of professional football, and it only comes around every four years, so tickets are in high demand and notoriously tricky to get your hands on. In fact, our customer service team gets a lot of fans who ask: How can I book World Cup tickets for a Croatia game? And it can be tricky. Let's walk you through all the steps so you can start thinking about booking your flights across the pond.

1. Select the match you want to attend and click 'View Tickets'.
2. Select the area you would like to sit within the stadium graphic on the right-hand side.
3. Select the number of tickets you would like to purchase.
4. Click on the green 'Buy' button.
5. Complete the order form using your personal details.
6. Don't forget to check that all your information has been input and is correct.
7. Click 'Make Payment'.
8. The tickets are now yours!

Ticket prices tend to vary depending on the seat category and match type, so do bear that in mind when selecting matches. Some games, mainly knockout matches or popular teams, can sell out incredibly quickly, so make sure you book early and are on high alert for when tickets come on sale!