In a statement victory that shook Group L, Croatia demolished the Czech Republic 5–1 at a packed Opus Arena in Osijek, reigniting their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification campaign. With a fluid attack and midfield mastery, Croatia outclassed the group leaders in every department.
From the outset, Zlatko Dalić’s men pressed high and threatened the Czech defense, nearly scoring within the opening minutes through Ante Budimir. Despite early setbacks and a disallowed goal from Joško Gvardiol in the 11th minute, Croatia’s persistence paid off just before halftime when Gvardiol headed home from a Mario Pašalić assist, putting the hosts ahead 1–0.
⚽ Second Half Dominance
The Czech Republic equalized through Tomáš Souček in the 58th minute, temporarily shifting the momentum. But Croatia responded like champions. A swift VAR-reviewed penalty was awarded to Budimir, and Luka Modrić made no mistake, restoring the lead at 2–1.
What followed was a clinical dismantling:
- Ivan Perišić scored the third in the 69th minute.
- A second penalty, this time converted by Budimir, made it 4–1.
- Andrej Kramarić added the final nail, scoring the fifth goal in the 75th minute from a sublime Modrić assist.
Even with the game well in hand, Croatia stayed sharp, with goalkeeper Dominik Livaković denying a late Czech attempt that struck the crossbar. A special moment arrived in the final minutes as 17-year-old Luka Vušković, a Tottenham signing, made his senior debut for Croatia.
💬 Croatia Sends a Message
Croatia’s midfield, led by the evergreen Luka Modrić, controlled the tempo, while the attack showed both flair and finishing power. The defense, marshaled by Gvardiol and Ćaleta-Car, kept Czech threats at bay.
This commanding win not only puts Croatia firmly back in the race for the top spot in Group L but also sends a message to the football world: Croatia is a serious contender for the 2026 World Cup.
