CroatiavsGhana

Modrić's last dance meets Ghana's new wave

At 40, Luka Modrić will likely anchor Croatia’s midfield one final time, facing a Ghana side rebuilt since their 2022 World Cup exit. Mohammed Kudus, now a Premier League standout, leads a Black Stars attack that thrives in transition. The tactical clash pits Croatia’s possession-heavy approach against Ghana’s verticality — a repeat of their 2006 group stage meeting where Croatia won 2-1.

Group L's knockout math

With Portugal favorites to top the group, this match could decide who advances as runner-up or among the best third-placed teams. Croatia’s 2022 semifinal experience contrasts with Ghana’s recent struggles in major tournaments, but both know a loss here complicates their path. The venue — likely a Midwest stadium — adds heat as a factor for European legs.

Set-piece shadows

Ghana conceded 4 of 7 goals from dead balls in 2022, while Croatia scored 3 of their 8 tournament goals via headers. Josko Gvardiol’s aerial threat from corners could exploit Ghana’s historical weakness, but the Black Stars now field Ajax’s Edson Álvarez — a specialist in clearing danger. One poorly defended free kick might settle this.

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• Ghana vs Panama — Thu, Jun 18, 2026 · 00:00 ET
• England vs Ghana — Tue, Jun 23, 2026 · 21:00 ET