Croatia Announces Squad for World Cup
The Croatia national team has announced its final squad for the 2026 World Cup. Head coach Zlatko Dalić has finalized the list of players who will participate in the tournament, including the team's legendary captain, Luka Modrić.
In recent years, the Croatian national team has consistently proven to be a formidable opponent in major competitions. Consequently, the squad selected by Dalić has drawn significant attention from fans and experts alike. The list features a blend of experienced stars and representatives of the new generation.
The goalkeepers selected are Dominik Livaković, Dominik Kotarski, and Ivor Pandur. Livaković remains a crucial figure for the team, given his extensive experience in major tournaments.
The defensive line includes players such as Joško Gvardiol, Duje Ćaleta-Car, Josip Šutalo, Josip Stanišić, Marin Pongračić, Martin Erlić, and Luka Vušković. Gvardiol's experience at Manchester City, in particular, could provide additional confidence to the Croatian defense.
The midfield remains one of Croatia's strongest areas. Luka Modrić, Mateo Kovačić, Mario Pašalić, Nikola Vlašić, Luka Sučić, Martin Baturina, Kristijan Jakić, Petar Sučić, Nikola Moro, and Toni Fruk are expected to intensify the competition in the center of the pitch. Modrić's inclusion is a special event—he remains a vital symbol of the team's spirit and tactical intelligence.
The attacking line features Ivan Perišić, Andrej Kramarić, Budimir, Marko Pašalić, Petar Musa, and Igor Matanović. In this department, Dalić has players with diverse styles, combining experience, physical strength, and speed.
Croatia's final squad for the 2026 World Cup:
Goalkeepers:
Dominik Livaković (Dinamo Zagreb), Dominik Kotarski (Copenhagen), Ivor Pandur (Hull City).
Defenders:
Joško Gvardiol (Manchester City), Duje Ćaleta-Car (Real Sociedad), Josip Šutalo (Ajax), Josip Stanišić (Bayern Munich), Marin Pongračić (Fiorentina), Martin Erlić (Midtjylland), Luka Vušković (Hamburg).
Midfielders:
Luka Modrić (Milan), Mateo Kovačić (Manchester City), Mario Pašalić (Atalanta), Nikola Vlašić (Torino), Luka Sučić, Martin Baturina (Como), Kristijan Jakić (Augsburg), Petar Sučić (Real Sociedad), Nikola Moro (Bologna), Toni Fruk (Rijeka).
Forwards:
Ivan Perišić (PSV), Andrej Kramarić (Hoffenheim), Budimir (Osasuna), Marko Pašalić (Orlando City), Petar Musa (Dallas), Igor Matanović (Freiburg).
In short, Croatia heads to the World Cup with a squad that blends experience and youth. The presence of Luka Modrić provides the team with unique composure and confidence. Now, Dalić's charges will attempt to showcase their character on the big stage once again. Underestimating Croatia remains a dangerous decision in football.
