The 2026 FIFA World Cup gets underway in Group L with a fascinating clash between Croatia and Ghana. For the Vatreni, this tournament represents the final chapter of an extraordinary golden generation—led by the ageless Luka Modrić, now 40, these are players who have reached a semifinal and a final in the last two World Cups. Ghana, meanwhile, arrive with a young, hungry squad eager to prove that their Quarterfinal run in 2010 was no fluke and that African football is on the rise. This opener sets the tone for Group L, with both sides knowing that three points are vital against a fellow contender for the knockout spots.
Key players to watch: For Croatia, all eyes will be on Modrić’s orchestration from deep, but the creative burden may fall on the shoulders of Josko Gvardiol, the dynamic centre-back now a leader at the back, and the predatory instincts of Andrej Kramarić up front. Ghana’s danger man is Mohammed Kudus, a silky dribbler and goal-scoring midfielder who thrives in chaotic transitions. Inaki Williams’ pace will also be a constant threat on the counter, while defensive midfielder Salis Abdul Samed will be tasked with disrupting Croatia’s rhythm. Tactically, Croatia will look to dominate possession with their 4-3-3, slow-build approach, using full-backs to overload the flanks and find crosses into the box. Ghana, likely in a 4-2-3-1, will sit deeper and hit on the break, exploiting any space left by Croatia’s advancing full-backs.
What’s at stake: Beyond the three points, this match is a psychological battle. Croatia can ill afford a slow start that might undermine their experience advantage; a loss would put them under immense pressure in a group that also includes tricky opponents. For Ghana, a win would signal a return to prominence and heap pressure on their European rivals. Historically, these sides met memorably in 2014 (a 2-2 draw), but this is a new generation and a new era. The winner takes control of Group L and a massive step toward the Round of 16.
Prediction: Croatia’s midfield mastery and tournament nous should edge this in a tense, tactical affair. Ghana’s athleticism will cause problems, but expect Modrić and his colleagues to manage the game’s tempo and find a crucial goal either side of half-time. A late Ghana equalizer cannot be ruled out, but Croatia’s experience in set-pieces and dead-ball situations gives them the edge. Croatia 2-1 Ghana.