Croatia Secures Second Place in Group with 2-1 Win Over Ghana at World Cup 2026

Croatia clinched their spot in the Round of 32 at the 2026 World Cup after a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Ghana, finishing second in Group 12 behind England. The match took place in Philadelphia, where both teams initially appeared content with a draw, as Ghana had already qualified for the knockout stage and Croatia needed only a point to advance as one of the best third-placed teams.

The first half was cautious, with few clear chances until Croatia's Petar Sučić scored a stunning long-range goal following a pass from Mateo Kovačić, giving Croatia a 1-0 lead. Ghana's threat was minimal in the first half, with only a near miss from Antoine Semenyo. In the second half, Ghana's coach Carlos Queiroz introduced Abdul Fatawu, who nearly leveled with a curling shot over the crossbar.

Meanwhile, news from the other group match saw England take the lead against Panama, pushing Croatia into second place. Ghana equalized in the 73rd minute through Derrick Luckassen, a former Maccabi Tel Aviv player, after a free kick from Ernest Nuamah. The goal was confirmed after a VAR review for offside concerns involving Kwasi Sibo.

However, Croatia regained the lead ten minutes later when Nikola Vlašić headed in a corner delivered by Luka Modrić. This goal secured Croatia's win and a compelling Round of 32 matchup against the runner-up of Group 11 in Toronto. Ghana, finishing third, will face the winner of that group in Kansas City.

The result highlights Croatia's resilience and tactical discipline under coach Zlatko Dalić as they advance further in the tournament.