Croatia have made three changes to their starting lineup for their final FIFA World Cup 2026 Group L match against Ghana, with defender Josko Gvardiol dropped to the bench. The match, set to be played in Philadelphia on Saturday, is a must-win for Croatia to guarantee qualification for the knockout stage.
Croatia's Tactical Shifts
Coach Zlatko Dalic handed starts to Ante Budimir and Nikola Vlasic for the first time in the tournament, while Petar Sucic was also recalled, according to Reuters. The changes reflect Croatia's urgent need for a victory after a mixed group stage performance.
Ivan Perisic is set to make his 20th FIFA World Cup appearance for Croatia, with every one of those matches coming as a starter. According to OptaJoe, among outfield players, only Paolo Maldini (23 matches), Diego Maradona (21), and Uwe Seeler (21) have made more World Cup appearances while starting each game.
Ghana's Adjustments Despite Qualification
Ghana, coached by Carlos Queiroz, also made three alterations despite already securing a place in the next round. Kamaldeen Sulemana was brought into the attack and Derrick Luckassen into defence, replacing Jerome Opoku.
Elsewhere in Group L, England have already advanced to the round of 32 and face Panama in their final group match.
Confirmed Lineups
Croatia: Dominik Livakovic, Josip Stanisic, Marin Pongracic, Josip Sutalo, Mateo Kovacic, Luka Modric, Ante Budimir, Nikola Vlasic, Ivan Perisic, Martin Baturina, Petar Sucic.
Ghana: Benjamin Asare, Jonas Adjetey, Thomas Partey, Kwasi Sibo, Jordan Ayew, Antoine Semenyo, Gideon Mensah, Elisha Owusu, Kamaldeen Sulemana, Derrick Luckassen, Marvin Senaya.
