On a rainy day in Pennsylvania, the lack of a roof at the Philadelphia Stadium posed a challenge for the 65,000 spectators clad in ponchos. However, what was expected to be a routine match transformed into a thrilling encounter, thanks to Luka Modric’s inspiring performance, leaving fans with positive memories.
With this result, both Croatia and Ghana progressed from Group L. Croatia earned a well-deserved victory, scoring two impressive goals: one from man of the match Petar Sucic and another in the dying moments from Nikola Vlasic. For Ghana, this marked their return to the knockout stage for the first time since 2010, although coach Carlos Queiroz reflected skeptically on the expanded World Cup format, calling it “I congratulate my players,”
Zlatko Dalic, the head coach for Croatia, sought to balance his excitement over reaching the round of 32 while addressing critics who questioned his team’s capabilities. He asserted that Modric and his teammates were regaining the form they displayed during their remarkable run in 2018.
“It was a difficult match but Croatia played excellently. We are back to where we were eight years ago again. [To qualify] was our first step, now we need to forget it. I have said we looked better in training than in matches, but I believe in the players and they have achieved tonight.” Dalic said. “It’s a coin with two faces”
Prior to kickoff, questions arose about the motivation for both teams, as a draw would suffice for progression. Nevertheless, Croatia aimed for victory from the outset, with Dalic encouraging an expansive style of play to exploit weaknesses in Ghana’s defense.
Croatia took advantage of their flanks, particularly through Ivan Perisic, who contributed significantly while playing left-back. They posed a constant threat from distance, as Vlasic struck the post in the 13th minute, before Sucic broke the deadlock in the 30th minute. Mateo Kovacic skillfully set up Sucic, who fired a low shot from 30 yards that slipped through defender Marvin Senaya’s legs and nestled inside the post.
While Ghana’s position in the tournament remained unaffected by the goal, it seemed to ignite a spark in Queiroz. Post-match, he expressed his doubts regarding the merit of the World Cup’s expanded format, despite it enabling his team to advance as third in their group.
“I do believe that what really has huge value is what is rare. I never see in my life ordinary things that come with huge value. The number of teams qualifying can turn this competition into a vulgar, ordinary competition. In South America it’s already harder not to qualify.” Queiroz stated. “Modric was a role model of how things should be,”
Following his concerns over the tournament format, Queiroz took decisive action at halftime, implementing a double substitution that led to Ghana’s most potent offensive display of the tournament. In the 73rd minute, they found a well-deserved equalizer when a left-footed free-kick from Ernest Nuamah, also a second-half substitute, was skillfully converted by Derrick Luckassen. After an initial offside call, referee Drew Fischer reviewed the play via VAR and ultimately allowed the goal.
The match continued to ebb and flow, with Croatia ramping up their intensity in the closing minutes. Substitute Mario Pasalic unleashed a powerful shot that forced a remarkable save from Benjamin Asare. Following a corner, Modric’s precise delivery found Vlasic, who scored with a commanding header.
This goal not only solidified Croatia’s lead but also made Modric the oldest player in history to record an assist at a World Cup. In added time, when Abdul Fatawu threatened in the Croatia box, it was Modric who intervened to regain possession. His manager praised him afterward, stating, “He is aware that this is his last World Cup and he is trying to do his best to say goodbye.”
- World Cup 2026
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