Croatia Clinches Spot in 2026 World Cup Qualification
The Croatia national football team successfully qualified for the 2026 World Cup after a decisive match against the Faroe Islands at Rujevica. Needing only a point from this game, Croatia achieved a 3-1 victory, securing their place in the tournament scheduled to take place in the USA, Canada, and Mexico next year.
Croatia vs. Faroe Islands: Match Summary
In a tense atmosphere, Croatia took on the Faroe Islands in their final home match of the qualifiers. Croatia’s starting lineup featured Livaković, Stanišić, Vušković, Gvardiol, Marco Pašalić, Modrić, Sučić, Perišić, Mario Pašalić, Kramarić, and Musa. Faroe Islands fielded Lamhauge, Faero, Vatnhamar, Edmundsson, Joensen, Turi, Andreasen, Davidsen, Frederiksberg, Olsen, and Sorensen.
Key Events of the Match
- 16th Minute: The Faroe Islands scored first with Turi’s deflected shot, making it 1-0.
- 23rd Minute: Joško Gvardiol equalized for Croatia with a powerful left-footed shot.
- 57th Minute: Petar Musa put Croatia ahead 2-1, marking his first international goal after a two-year absence.
- 70th Minute: Vlašić scored the third goal, extending Croatia’s lead to 3-1.
- 80th Minute: Livaković made a crucial save, maintaining Croatia’s lead.
Performance Highlights
Throughout the match, Croatia demonstrated their dominance, completing 585 passes compared to the Faroe Islands’ 84. Luka Modrić and the rest of the team created several scoring opportunities, with Modrić himself testing the opposing goalkeeper multiple times.
Following this impressive victory, Croatia will travel to Podgorica for their last qualifying match against Montenegro on Monday. The final draw for the 2026 World Cup is set for December 5th. The Croatian team remains optimistic about their chances as they continue to build on a successful qualification campaign.
Congratulations to Croatia on their achievement in securing a spot in the upcoming World Cup!
