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Croatia is preparing one key change for its decisive World Cup clash against Ghana. Zlatko Dalić is expected to rely on experience, leadership, and a refreshed attack as his side looks to secure a place in the knockout stage
Croatia prepares one key change for its biggest group-stage test
Croatia heads into one of its most important matches of the 2026 FIFA World Cup when it faces Ghana in the final Group L fixture. After bouncing back with a narrow victory over Panama, Zlatko Dalić’s side controls its own destiny, making every lineup decision crucial ahead of a match that could determine its place in the knockout rounds
Croatia knows there is little room for error. Ghana enters the contest unbeaten and has recorded back-to-back clean sheets, meaning the European side will need more than possession and patience to unlock a well-organized opponent. Every tactical decision could prove decisive in Philadelphia
Ante Budimir has earned the opportunity to lead the attack
The biggest expected change comes up front, where Ante Budimir appears set to make his first start of the tournament. The Osasuna striker came off the bench to score the match-winning goal against Panama, and according to several pre-match reports, that performance has moved him ahead of Petar Musa in Zlatko Dalić’s plans
Behind him, Croatia is expected to keep the same attacking trio that impressed in the previous match. Martin Baturina should continue as the attacking midfielder, supported by Ivan Perišić and Marco Pašalić on the wings
Modrić’s experience remains the foundation of Croatia’s midfield
One area where Croatia is unlikely to make any changes is midfield. Luka Modrić is expected to partner Mateo Kovačić once again, providing the experience, composure, and technical quality that have defined Croatia’s success on the international stage
The match also represents another milestone for Modrić, who is set to make his 201st appearance for Croatia, further cementing his status as one of the country’s greatest footballers
Defensively, Dalić is also expected to stick with the same back four. Dominik Livaković should start in goal behind Josip Stanišić, Marin Pongračić, Josip Šutalo, and Joško Gvardiol
Croatia’s predicted lineup against Ghana
Barring any last-minute surprises, Zlatko Dalić is expected to field the following starting XI:
Dominik Livaković; Josip Stanišić, Marin Pongračić, Josip Šutalo, Joško Gvardiol; Mateo Kovačić, Luka Modrić; Marco Pašalić, Martin Baturina, Ivan Perišić; Ante Budimir
The matchup promises to be one of the most important of the final group-stage round. A victory would almost certainly send Croatia into the knockout stage, while any slip-up could leave its World Cup hopes hanging in the balance. Against an unbeaten Ghana side, the projected lineup may ultimately determine Croatia’s fate
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