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Everything you need to know about Croatia’s line-up for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Although a World Cup title still eludes them, Croatia have consistently proven to be one of the most resilient and tactically astute teams in global football.

Having finished in the top three in the last two editions of the tournament, Zlatko Dalic’s side once again impressed during qualification — going unbeaten and registering seven wins in eight matches to secure their place in the finals being hosted across the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Despite the retirement of several key players and some of their seasoned stars entering the twilight of their careers, the ever-influential Luka Modric continues to show why he remains indispensable. With his leadership and quality, Croatia will be a formidable opponent for their Group L rivals, which include England.

Alongside England, Croatia will face Ghana and Panama in the group stage and are confident of once again making a strong push into the knockout rounds.

Goalkeepers

Dominik Livakovic is set to retain his position as Croatia’s first-choice goalkeeper. The Dinamo Zagreb custodian was one of the standout performers at the 2022 World Cup, producing crucial saves in penalty shootouts against Japan and Brazil that helped Croatia reach the semi-finals. Behind him, Dominik Kotarski, with only three senior caps, and Ivor Pandur, uncapped at the time of selection, provide back-up options.

Defenders

The defensive unit features several players who compete in Europe’s top leagues. Josko Gvardiol remains the defensive lynchpin and is expected to start at full-back. Duje Caleta-Car and Josip Stanisic add further depth and experience to the backline.

While Borna Sosa from Crystal Palace did not make the final cut, young Tottenham prospect Luka Vuskovic, currently on loan at Hamburg, has earned a place in the 26-man squad — a nod to Croatia’s commitment to blending youth with experience.

Midfielders

The heartbeat of Croatia’s success lies in their midfield. Although veterans Marcelo Brozovic and Ivan Rakitic have stepped away, Luka Modric continues to anchor the side with his trademark poise and vision. Croatia have named a well-stocked midfield group of ten players for the tournament.

Atalanta’s Mario Pasalic has been in impressive form and is expected to play a major role in North America, while Mateo Kovacic, despite an injury-hit campaign at Manchester City, remains a key contributor.

Attackers

Up front, Croatia might face a few challenges. Ivan Perisic remains a reliable attacking presence, but Zlatko Dalic continues to experiment with his central striker as no player has firmly secured the position in recent months.

Ante Budimir could be given the nod due to his experience, though his scoring record for the national team remains modest. Other options include Petar Musa, Igor Matanovic, Franjo Ivanovic, and Mislav Orsic — with Orsic, at 33, being the senior-most among them.

Croatia’s Key Players

For another deep run in the competition, Croatia’s veterans will need to lead by example. Luka Modric, now 40 and playing for AC Milan, continues to maintain exceptional standards. His partnership with Mateo Kovacic in midfield will be crucial for maintaining control and tempo.

Ivan Perisic’s knack for scoring in World Cups could again prove decisive, while Josko Gvardiol’s defensive prowess and aerial threat at set-pieces will be central to the team’s stability. Goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic, known for his composure under pressure, will be ready to play the hero once more if matches go to penalties.

Predicted Croatia Starting XI for FIFA World Cup 2026

Croatia have a largely settled backline and midfield, though fitting multiple central midfielders into the starting line-up will be a tactical challenge for Dalic.

The forward position remains fluid, with no player having fully convinced the manager during recent friendlies and qualifiers.

Ultimately, Croatia’s hopes will rest on the performances of their dependable defenders and midfielders, while Ante Budimir may shoulder the responsibility of leading the attack.

Predicted Starting XI (4-2-3-1): Livakovic; Gvardiol, Caleta-Car, Pongracic, Stanisic; Modric, Kovacic; Pasalic, Kramaric, Perisic; Budimir.