World Cup 2026: Croatia secure knockout spot after Ghana win

Croatia secured their place in the round of 32 of the 2026 World Cup with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Ghana at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, ending the Black Stars' hopes of topping Group L.

Petar Sucic gave the 2018 runners-up the lead in the 31st minute with a well-taken strike, but Ghana responded through Derrick Luckassen, who headed home in the 73rd minute to level the scores.

However, Croatia restored their lead almost immediately when Nikola Vlasic converted from a corner, securing the win that confirmed their progression.

Despite the defeat, Ghana had already booked their place in the knockout stages before kick-off, thanks to their 1-0 win over Panama and a goalless draw against England. Carlos

Queiroz made several changes to his starting lineup, with Jerome Opoku rested as a precaution following a groin strain and Derrick Luckassen handed his World Cup debut. Elisha Owusu also returned to the starting XI after missing the England game.

Ghana finished third in Group L with four points. They will now face the winners of Group K, likely Portugal or Colombia, in the round of 32.

Croatia, who had recovered from a 4-2 opening defeat to England with a narrow win over Panama, finished second in the group with six points. They will face the runners-up from Group K.

England topped the group with seven points after beating Panama 3-0 and will face either Senegal or one of the best third-placed teams in the round of 32.

For Ghana, the tournament continues despite the defeat, with a challenging knockout fixture awaiting them.

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