Croatia - 2026 FIFA World Cup

Croatia continue to be one of international football's most remarkable overachievers, with Luka Modric still pulling the strings in midfield at an age when most players have long retired. Group L draws them against England, Ghana, and Panama when matches begin June 17, a familiar type of competitive bracket for a team that thrives under pressure. Expect Croatia to be in the conversation for a knockout stage place right until the final group game.